Every foreign in a new country may experience feelings of isolation and loneliness during their initial period. This is why networking is crucial as it enhances your visibility, provides better access to job opportunities, and helps in building relationships. Your network can serve as a valuable source of information, feedback, and advice.
There are numerous suggestions on how to expand your network, such as attending social meet-ups like language exchange events, cultural gatherings, or connecting with people at your workplace or educational institution. However, the psychological aspect of building a quality network is often overlooked.
In networking, possessing emotional intelligence is essential, including behavioral traits such as positive self-regard, which involves acknowledging and respecting your strengths and weaknesses. It is also crucial to be genuine and honest, as these qualities are often well-received by others.
So, how can you enhance your inclusivity in society and improve your networking skills?
According to Daniel Goleman, an influential American psychologist known for popularizing emotional intelligence, there are five key elements to it: self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. Besides, it is not achievable through AI tools or virtual reality; the human factor and mutual understanding are the main aspects that hold value in this context.
Here are tips to consider:
Be curious about yourself and other people Take time to think about your beliefs and attitudes towards diversity, and make an effort to overcome any unconscious biases. It is also great to ask for feedback from people with different cultural backgrounds to learn how you can improve your interactions and behavior.
Make an environment for self-reflection Practice techniques like mindfulness and deep breathing to help you handle your emotions in tough or unfamiliar situations. And always stay open-minded - be willing to consider new perspectives and adjust your behavior and viewpoints when needed.
Multicultural diversity as your main drive Remember to set goals that support diversity and inclusion, such as getting involved in multicultural events or becoming part of diversity-focused groups. Keep a positive attitude about learning from and building connections with people from various backgrounds.
Evolve your empathy When you are talking to someone, make sure to really listen without interrupting. Show that you care about their experiences and viewpoints. It is also important to be supportive and understanding, especially when someone is sharing their struggles or diverse experiences.
Effective communication Improve your communication skills by being clear, concise, and respectful. Pay attention to nonverbal cues, adapt your communication style to fit different cultures, and build relationships with people from diverse backgrounds. Learn conflict resolution techniques that respect cultural differences and seek win-win solutions.
Building strong and healthy cross-cultural relationships may not always be easy, but with the right approach, it can be an exciting opportunity for personal growth and expanding your social circle. By being in touch with your emotions, staying open to learning, and showing a genuine interest in other cultures, you can set the stage for successful integration into a new community. Remember, when you understand yourself, you can truly connect with others. As the Daniel Goleman said, "In a very real sense we have two minds, one that thinks and one that feels”
Our multicultural center, Brusinka, is all about encouraging emotional discovery, inclusivity, trust, and safety. We are here to create opportunities for people to connect with themselves, build meaningful professional relationships with others and get opportunities for personal growth.
Author:
Mgr. Mariia Svyrydova Editor: Mgr. Viktoria Netíková
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