Networking Opportunities for International Writers

When you work as an international writer, you have to take every opportunity to network that you're handed, especially if you're an expatriate. Here are a few of my best tips for networking opportunities for international writers.

Visit Your Embassy

We're always told to head to the nearest U.S. embassy if we're robbed or if we lose our passport, but did you know that your embassy can also offer a cornucopia of resources for international writers? If you get the chance, ask the representative at the Citizens' Services booth to give you a list of professional organizations in the country in which you are living. Often, you'll find numerous writers' groups and organizations that can lead to work.

Join Expatriate Groups

When you're a "transplant" to a foreign country, it can help if you connect with others who are experiencing the same problems and wonders. Expatriate groups can be located online or at public libraries in your city. Join a few and attend at least one meeting to determine whether or not it will be for you. This can often open up opportunities for international writers who just need to make contact with local professionals.

Attend Trade Shows

Just about every major city in the world has a multitude of trade shows several times per year. Even if you don't want to set up your own booth, you can attend the trade shows and start talking with local business owners. This might give you ideas for articles or introduce you to new avenues of writing. International writers will often find that businesses are very willing to outsource American writers for various projects.

Talk with Locals

When you're cruising the supermarket lines or standing in line for a latte at the local coffee shop, don't be afraid to chat with the people around you. A good friend of mine spent a year in Paris and met a woman at her dry cleaner's one afternoon. It turned out that the woman was the editor for a major Parisian magazine and she offered to give my friend an assignment. You never know when you can use opportunistic networking to assist your freelance writing career.

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