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Anyone who is conducting a job search will probably tell you that the advice they are given most frequently involves networking. Developing new contacts, refreshing old relationships, keeping in touch with individuals who are in a position to help you -- all of these are aspects of networking. In fact, most jobs are gotten through networking; some research has shown that up to 80 percent of positions are filled this way.
In the United States, networking is done broadly, through friends and family, previous employers, professional associations, university alumni/ae, and even through cold contacts with strangers or organizations. People network at all levels, from entry-level professionals, mid-level managers, through CEOs and directors. There is certain etiquette involved, perhaps a letter or call of introduction from someone who knows both you and the person you wish to meet, or an email (or letter) directly from the person networking, requesting a meeting or some information. It is professional, but fairly informal and non-hierarchical.
However, what does networking mean when you are conducting a job search overseas? If you are not aware of the professional norms in the country you hope to work in, this could prove disastrous in your job search, and destroy certain relationships before you have had a chance to properly begin them.
For example, class, socioeconomic status and personal connections are much more important when networking in Latin American culture. One American professional who has worked in the region notes, "professional networking in Mexico and Brazil is done at a much more personal level than here in the US. In my recent experience looking for a job in the US, I have started with a contact, who has referred me to another person, who then referred me on to several people, and so on. This doesn't happen as fluidly in Latin America."
In Asia, by contrast, communication is much more indirect; this definitely affects how you might network with people in a job search. One individual who worked in Indonesia observed that a calm, less assertive communication style is more respected in the workplace. Thus, he recommends, "you might want to develop your skills in indirect and subtle communication." Additionally, as in Latin America, personal connections count a great deal in Asia. Don't be surprised, therefore, if the individuals you are trying to meet question you carefully -– they may be attempting to determine how useful you will be to them, and this might well affect how much they choose to help you.
What does this mean to you, the overseas job seeker? Learn as much as you can about the cultural nuances of the country where you want to network. Talk to individuals who have worked in -- or are natives of -- your country of interest. They can help you compare and contrast communication styles and other cultural norms that will affect how you network. As in other aspects of your job search, a little preparation can go a long way.