You may be moving to a new country and want to know how to build a social circle. It takes dedication to form strong friendships, but you can make it happen! Throughout this article, we use Portugal as an example of what it takes to adjust to being in this new country.
The first thing you must do before trying to network in a foreign country is learn the language. You don’t have to turn into a scholar in the language right away. However, knowing enough to be able to introduce yourself to people is an excellent place to start.
It’s best to start learning before you get to the country where you’re going. That way, you’ll be prepared when you arrive. Once you’re there, you can take other classes and practice by having conversations with people.
The Basic Four Steps
Once you have that groundwork established, then you can start on the four steps, which are:
• Accept the people of the other country for who they are.
• Respect their cultural differences.
• Actively seek to learn about the culture and the country’s history.
• Meet new people in both business and social settings.
1. Acceptance
Accepting you’re in a new place is the beginning of embracing the culture, for example, Portuguese people will not be the same as Americans. For example, the Portuguese still live in extended family groups. The nuclear family is almost unknown. It’s not uncommon for two or three generations of one family to live within a couple of blocks of one another.
Furthermore, punctuality isn’t nearly as important as in the U.S. The Portuguese are less direct in their communication and interact with more physical contact than Americans. These things are normal. You’ll gain acceptance by accepting them.
2. Respect
In a new country, you will seem just as strange to residents as they seem to you. Cheek kissing when you meet is normal. It can happen between people of the same gender too. Pulling away from a hug or a cheek kiss would be seen as insulting. Respect the laid-back atmosphere when it comes to arriving somewhere. Starting times are much more flexible in Portugal. So, if you show up on time, don’t give the other person grief if the person is a little bit late.
Portuguese cuisine is also heavily based on seafood with less beef and pork. The spices are also much more varied than they are in North America. Be gracious when eating in a group. Complaining about the food simply because it’s not what you’re used to could be insulting to others at the table.
3. Learn
Ask questions to learn. Also, ask them to gain understanding. Lastly, ask how, but don’t ask why. “Is this acceptable?” is great. “Why is this acceptable?” is not. As you learn, make changes in the way you think and act. It’s all about fitting in. The Portuguese citizens will appreciate you when you make the effort. They won’t appreciate it if you refuse to learn their ways. So, keep this in mind as you continue your learning experience.
4. Meet
You know a little of the language. You’ve learned a little about Portuguese customs. Now, go mingle. Be friendly with Portuguese customs. Seek the advice of colleagues about where to go. It’s helpful to ask them the best places to eat or to meet new friends. Treat those discussions as learning opportunities.
Where to Live In Portugal
Are you curious as to where you should live in Purtugal? Here are a few of the safest places to live there:
• Lisbon
• Braga
• Porto
• Portimão
• Aveiro
International Citizens Group further explains tidbits about where to live in Portugal. As with any place you don’t know, stay on the beaten path. Don’t wander off. Be aware of your surroundings. Know how to call for help if you get lost. The number for emergencies in Portugal is 112. Get on public transport and ask how to get somewhere. Install a translation app on your phone. Use it for complicated conversations, especially with the police.
Conclusion
Experiencing Portugal should be fun. To ensure you have a positive experience, make an effort to be more flexible. You’ll be surprised how many deep connections you can make along the way.