Learning through networking with others

International networks

Many businesses have international dimensions, eg foreign suppliers or customers, overseas branches or staff with a foreign background.

Some belong to international networks of similar businesses because it helps them to manage those international dimensions better and to benefit from them.

Benefits from international networks include:

• information on developments in an overseas industry/sector or market
• staff exchanges to facilitate understanding, to help developing countries and to share practices and knowledge
• skills building and training processes, eg employment processes, overseas export/import requirements, health and safety standards
• understanding of regulations and documentation, eg for overseas customs or licensing authorities

You can research international networks through UK-based overseas Chambers of Commerce. Find details of overseas chambers based in the UK on the British Chambers of Commerce website.

The British Council provides businesses with introductions to high-quality professionals in key industrial sectors from important developing international markets. Learn about the British Overseas Industrial Placement Scheme at the British Council website.

The UK Trade and Investment website provides useful guidance and information to help you carry out business internationally. Learn about exporting at the UK Trade and Investment website.

The Federation of European Employers offers business members networking opportunities through informal meetings, access to information and knowledge on employment issues such as pay, employment law and human resources policies, as well as guidance on staff contracts. Learn about networking opportunities at the Federation of European Employers website.

A European Economic Interest Grouping (EEIG) is a legal framework that allows businesses in the EU to establish links with each other and work together in business without losing their independence. However, there are some drawbacks, eg the members of an EEIG have liability for its debts and liabilities. Download a guide to EEIGs from the Companies House website (PDF).

Subjects covered in this guide

• Introduction
• How networking works
• Benefits of networking
• Different kinds of network
• Finding network partners
• Be an active participant in networks
• International networks
• Here's how networking locally improved my business

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