How to Get Started Networking in Shanghai

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How to Get Started Networking in Shanghai

Why is Networking So Tough?

For anyone coming to a new town, be it Shanghai or anywhere else, networking is essential -- after all, how else can you integrate into the community? The first networking event you attend can be like your first day at school -- you don't know anyone, you don't know how to behave and you're worried about what others will think of you. When you're there for the first time with all the other strangers, the only thing you want to do is go home, even though you know staying is for your own good.

Everyone feels this way at first, and for some that feeling never quite goes away. Even experienced networkers sometimes feel like fish out of water. For people who are just starting out though, that feeling is stronger than ever.

Believe it or not, you're already a master networker. Every time you've made a friend or chatted to your neighbours you've been networking. And, unless you lived a miserable, solitary childhood, you doubtless had friends at school, all of whom you had never met at some point. So, what changed? Why are adults usually more nervous to network than children? If anything, it should be less stressful. After all, nobody's going to laugh at you for falling off your bike or because you can't tie your shoelaces.

It all comes down to face. While a lot of us think of it as a mostly Chinese thing, no-one wants to look bad in front of those they want to meet. Don't worry though, as soon as you get chatting to someone (and maybe get a few drinks down you) you'll get into the swing of things and it'll flow much more smoothly.

What is Networking, Really?

Networking is about building relationships, whether for business, social or any other purposes. Some have the misconception that it's limited to exchanging little pieces of cardboard with their contact details -- a classic case of not seeing the forest for the trees. Sure, exchanging business cards is a part of networking, but it doesn't build a meaningful relationship. Networking can happen anywhere -- at a mixer, at a seminar, or even chatting to other parents as you pick your kid up from school. All you need is two or more people and something to talk about.

Networking Events in Shanghai

Making contacts in any foreign country can be daunting, but even more so in China where you have to contend with language barriers and a different social scene. To help things along a little bit, there are lots of chambers of commerce and networking organisations organising events where you can meet new faces.

Several chambers of commerce hold regular mixers at bars around town. Don't worry if you're not a citizen of the country, or can barely point to it on a map -- they're generally pretty welcoming of all and sundry. The usual door charge is about 100-150 RMB, including a couple of drinks, and RSVPs are rarely necessary.

How to Network

What to Wear

If you don't want to stand out too much, most people at Chamber events (especially BritCham) tend to go for a suit and tie. Other events, like AustCham and Oriented.com are more informal. Check out our article on what to wear for more information

Business Cards

Don't leave home without them. The Chinese way of giving cards is with two hands, holding the top corners of the card with your thumbs on top as you pass it over. Some westerners do this, some don't -- it's pretty much up to you, though you may look a bit better to your Chinese contacts if you try.

Being a student or between jobs is no reason not to have a card. Get one printed with your contact details -- you never know who you might meet.

Also consider adding useful information to your card -- if you're a jobseeker a very condensed resume makes a good impression. If you're in financial services, print "5 financial tips" or similar on your card. It'll differentiate you from the crowd and get you stuck in peoples' heads.
Also see: 4 Ways to Improve Your Cards

Eye Contact

Eye contact can be a great way to show sincerity and interest in what others are saying, though to a Chinese audience too much can make you seem hostile

Following Up

It's all very well meeting people, but how are you going to stand out from the crowd? Something few people ever seem to do is follow up, unless it's with a potential client. Take the a long view: anyone you meet at a networking event could be a useful contact in future, so why not send a quick email message and see what happens? I usually send a LinkedIn invite with a personal note attached, just to add a bit more value and make future communication easier.
Also see: How to Remember to Follow Up, 5 Cardinal Sins of Follow Up E-mails

What Should I Do Now?

Now you've (hopefully) got a taste of what networking in Shanghai is all about, it's time to get your butt into gear and do something about it.

Check the events calendar for upcoming mixers
Get some cards printed up if you haven't already done so - 4 ways to improve your cards
If you're nervous about going solo, get some friends to tag along
If you have time, work on an elevator pitch -- it's one way to make a great first impression