Expat network building in Brussels

Belgium and especially Brussels is a hotbed of expats involved in politics and commerce, making networking a must to make friends as well as helpful colleagues.

Relocation to Brussels is as much about broadening your mind as it is about doing a good job. In the packed international expat community almost everyone is a contact if some kind or another, with mingling beneficial both in business and forming friendships. Social networking is essential, whether it’s at sponsored cultural events, openings of exhibitions, meet-up groups or professional networks. If your kids are at an international school, the parents of their best friends will often provide other opportunities.

Digital opportunities are equally as wide, giving info on like-minded get-togethers as well as on groups with a focus on business, start-ups and groups especially for women. Professional networks include events set up by trade bodies, chambers of commerce with regional or national interests and even think-tanks on topics relevant to politics or business. Several international universities have alumni associations active in Belgium.

For innovators seeking a chance to meet up with their peers, Belgium’s Antwerp, Ghent and Leuven universities have first-class researchers fired with enthusiasm for bringing their innovations to the market place. If you’re keen on building your own skills, there’s a great choice of learning opportunities, from business-focused language courses through entrepreneurship to digital marketing and more.

If you’ve any time left after all the above, exploring this small but impressive country and its fascinating history and heritage can give you an insight into its culture. It’s not just EU-centric, it’s been at the hub of Europe for centuries due to its geographical position, and its buildings are a fascinating reminder of the whole of European history. Medieval towns, Renaissance architecture and elegant Art Nouveau mansions are all here, and a visit to the ancient, strategically important and highly entrepreneurial trading hub of Bruges with its canals and cobbled streets is a must.