A strong professional network is indispensable for business success. For many Taiwanese newcomers in Toronto, building an effective network in an unfamiliar environment is one of the steepest challenges. TMAT has compiled the following practical strategies to help you integrate and grow your circle.
**1. Join the Taiwan Merchants Association of Toronto (TMAT)**
TMAT is Toronto's largest and most established Taiwanese business organization, founded in 1995, with active members across diverse industries. Membership benefits include:
- Access to regular business luncheons, forums, and the annual Gala
- Direct engagement with business and political leaders
- Access to international resources through the WTCC / TCCNA global Taiwanese chamber network
- Referrals to vetted professional service providers
**2. Participate Actively in Local Events**
Beyond the chamber, Toronto offers rich business community resources:
- **Board of Trade / Chamber of Commerce**: The Toronto region's chambers host regular cross-industry networking events.
- **Industry associations**: Join your sector's professional association for deep, vertical networking.
- **LinkedIn**: Toronto's professional culture places high value on LinkedIn — update your profile regularly and connect proactively.
- **Meetups**: Technology, entrepreneurship, real estate, and dozens of other Meetup groups convene weekly across Greater Toronto.
**3. Understanding Canadian Business Culture**
Canadian business culture differs from Taiwan's in several ways that are worth knowing:
- **Direct yet polite**: Canadians tend to communicate directly, but with measured and courteous language.
- **Punctuality matters**: Arriving on time is a baseline professional expectation.
- **Follow up promptly**: Sending a brief follow-up or LinkedIn connection request within one to two days of meeting someone is a key trust-building step in Canadian business culture.
- **Reciprocity mindset**: Great networks are mutual — always consider what value you can offer the other person.
**4. Leveraging the Taiwanese Business Community**
Toronto has a vibrant Taiwanese business community. Beyond TMAT, the Young Taiwan Merchants Association of Toronto (YTMAT) is specifically designed for professionals under 35. The Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Toronto also hosts events that connect community members with official resources and visiting delegations from Taiwan.
**5. Playing the Long Game**
Network-building is a long-term investment:
- Show up consistently to chamber and industry events so people remember you
- Check in with contacts regularly, not just when you need something
- Proactively share resources and opportunities — it builds a reputation for reliability
- Small gestures (a relevant article, an introduction, a congratulatory note) compound into strong relationships over time
To learn about TMAT membership, email info@tma-toronto.ca or call 905-479-6068. We look forward to growing alongside you.