Ever wondered how long it takes for folks to start whispering your name in a new town?

For me, it was a solid five years, though looking back, I reckon I could've shaved a couple off that timeline with a few tweaks, and not having a pandemic in the middle of the process would have helped. But most of the whys were beyond my reach such as being able to show up at the networking events, participating in main gatherings and even having the site for sit-down meetings.

This was the topic during a recent class break and most of my students were saying how lost they feel in terms of how to network here in the city, where to go, and honestly, what to say when you first start connecting with local people. Building your reputation in a new place is not a smooth process, we know it.

Today, I want to share my journey of weaving myself into a community and spill the beans on what I've learned along the way.

1. Lean into the Uncomfortable: Making yourself known in a new place means diving into the deep end of discomfort. It's about pushing past the nerves, showing up at gatherings, and throwing yourself into conversations even when your language skills feel a bit rusty. Embrace the awkwardness—it's where the magic happens. Not a social person? Try bringing a friend along, someone you feel comfortable around, and maybe join a group, and instead of jumping into the conversation, just listen. Often, someone will throw a question at you and that will be your cue.
2. Actions Speak Louder Than Words: Patience is your best pal here. Instead of just talking the talk, you gotta walk the walk. It's not enough to claim your spot; you've gotta earn it. You'd be surprised how many folks expect fame to land on their doorstep without lifting a finger. Show 'em what you're made of, and watch the respect roll in. One sincere and practical advice I give my students that would also fit any new professional in town is to pick some pro-bono jobs you can offer, I know no one likes to work for free, but that could be a chance to have a kick-start on your relationships. Make the free work short and sweet, it will be effective.
3. Know Yourself (and YOUR Intentions): Before you start mingling, get clear on what you're after. Sure, everyone's got a story to tell, but be mindful of how much time you're taking up. Be upfront about why you're reaching out, what you're hoping to get out of it, and why you're a valuable addition to their world. Clarity goes a long way in building genuine connections.
4. Dance to the Local Beat: Diversity is the spice of life, but every community's got its own rhythm. Pay attention to the vibes around you and adapt accordingly. Take it from me—my Latina flair didn't always jive with the Canadian scene until I dialed it back a notch. Blend in without losing yourself, and you'll be surprised at how fast you become part of the scenery.
5. Rome Wasn't Built in a Day: Be patient, amigo. Building a reputation takes time, and there's no shortcut to earning folks' trust. Don't rush the process or make promises you can't keep. When your name starts making the rounds for all the right reasons, you'll know the wait was worth it.

Making your mark in a new community is all about embracing the journey. Dive into the discomfort, let your actions do the talking, stay true to yourself while respecting local customs, and above all, be patient. Before you know it, you'll be the talk of the town—in the best possible way.

All the best,

Aline.