Networking Options in London
Meeting new people and getting into a social network is essential to a successful expatriate experience. There are many ways to meet people – from joining a private club to meeting people online.
Expat and Social Groups
Meetup: http://www.meetup.com
Whether you’re into yoga, basset hounds, hiking, or learning Spanish, you will find an interesting group that suits your interests on the Meetup site. If you have a specific interest or hobby and can’t find it on the site, start your own group and meet people. The site also has expat groups.
EasyExpat: http://www.easyexpat.com
Create an online profile and start meeting other ex-pats in London.
American Women’s Club of London: http://awclondon.org
This club for American ex-pats in London provides social, cultural, educational and philanthropic activities. Take bridge lessons, get support if you’re a new mom, or just have afternoon tea and start networking. Membership runs around £150.
TheAmericanHour.com http://www.theamericanhour.com/ The website that offers advice & information to expatriates moving to and living in the UK some will apply to your relocation in London
Consulates
Check out your home country’s consulate in London to find out about expat groups specific to your home nation.
The Guardian newspaper published a guide to London ethnic groups and their locations: http://www.guardian.co.uk/
Business Organizations
British American Business: http://www.babinc.org has locations in New York and London and provides a variety of business and social gatherings for its members. 75 Brook Street, London W1K 4AD, Tel: +44 (0)20 7290 9888, E-mail: ukinfo@babinc.org
The London Chamber of Commerce: http://www.londonchamber.co.uk 33 Queen Street; EC4R 1AP. Hire a room for a business meeting or attend networking events. Get advice on almost every aspect of your business from The London Chamber of Commerce.
Private Clubs
The Hospital Club:
This upscale club in Covent Garden caters to those in the creative industries. If you work in media, this is the place for you. It is an excellent place for business networking, as well as socializing. The club is huge, with a cinema, restaurant, games room and several bars. There is almost always an event going on. Join the book or writing group. Membership is a bit selective and fees are relatively high.
Blacks Members Club: 67 Dean Street; W1D 4QH; 0872 148 0921
Blacks is a bit artsy. Laptops aren’t allowed so it is definitely not a business-meeting spot. Meet interesting people and have dinner or drinks in a quirky London venue. Call the club to enquire about membership.
Country Clubs
Finding a country club in London can be a bit tricky because it’s an urban area and there is a certain British snobbery that goes along with such membership. If you’re a golfer, try the Muswell Hill Golf Club (http://www.muswellhillgolfclub.co.uk). Rates are affordable. The course has been around since 1893 and isn’t far from central London.
Community Service
London is a huge place so your location of work or residence will play a part in where you wish to volunteer. Contact your local council through the government directory, simply type in the name of your borough: https://www.gov.uk/find-your-local-council
