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How to Make Friends and Network in Russia?

Cracking the Russian Social Code: Making Friends & Building Connections in the Motherland

 

Well, you're here in Russia! Super! It's a country of incredible history, art, and culture. But let's be real, attempting to figure out how to make friends and build a circle of contacts within a foreign country is like trying to solve a blindfolded Rubik's Cube. Panic not, however! It's absolutely possible. Take this for your friendly guidebook to knowing the Russian social scene and establishing contacts that will make your experience richer and more fulfilling.

 

Understanding the Russian Vibe (It's Not Like in the Movies!)

 

There are a few things that will help you get into it before you leap, though. Understanding how Russians handle social situations will help. It's not worse or better, just. different.

 

•  First Impressions Matter (Formality is Key): Russians prefer to be a little more formal at first. Think about it like this: you wouldn't start calling your professor by first name on the first day, would you? Same thing. Use first name and patronymic (that middle name which sounds like their father's name) until they signal it's okay to call them by just their first name. It's a sign of respect.

 

• Honesty is the Best Policy, but Tact is a Close Second: Russians appreciate honesty, but they are also slightly more vague in their communication than certain peoples. Try to be tactful and not so brutally honest or confrontational, especially when you first meet someone. All about finding the right middle ground.

 

•  Loyalty is a Big Deal: After you've built a relationship with a Russian, it will tend to be a deep and long one. It takes a bit longer to attain than you're used to, but relationships tend to be incredibly loyal and supportive.

 

• Hospitality is a Way of Life: Buckle up for some serious Russian hospitality! If you become buddies, get ready to be invited to dinner, parties, and all sorts of social events. Just make sure to return the favor when you can – it's a two-way street!

 

How to Actually Make Friends (No Magic Wand Required)

 

Alright, let's get real. Here are some tried-and-true methods to make friends in Russia:

 

•  Learn the Language! (Seriously, Even a Little Helps): Ah, yes, I know, Russian is scary to learn. But even if you pick up very basic things like "Hello," "Thank you," and "How are you?" it'll make a huge difference. It shows you're making an effort to communicate with people, and they'll appreciate it and will pay attention. Take a class, download an app, or find yourself a language exchange buddy – every little helps!

 

• Join the Club (Literally!)

Think of clubs and interest groups as your worst-kept secret. If hiking, photography, chess, or even a type of music are your hobbies, finding a club with whom you share these things is a sure bet for connections. Try colleges, cultural societies, or on the internet.

 

•  Be a Culture Vulture: Attend concerts, theater performances, art exhibitions, and festivals. Not only is it an excellent way to experience the culture of Russia, it's a fantastic way to make friends who like the same things you do.

 

•  University Perks: Use 'Em! If you're a student, take advantage of all that your university has to offer. Attend orientation activities, get involved in student groups, and attend social activities sponsored by the international student office. They're really designed to get you to meet people!

 

•  Say "Yes" (Within Reason, Of Course!): When you're invited to something, try your best to go! Even if you feel a little anxious, pushing yourself out of your comfort zone is generally worth it.

 

•  Be Open and Approachable (Smile!): Smile, look people in the eye, and don't be afraid to talk to strangers in everyday life. A cheery "hello" can be very powerful.

 

•  Social Media Can Be Your Friend (and Language Partner): Look at VKontakte (VK), basically the Russian Facebook. It's a good way of contacting individuals and hearing about local happenings. Language exchange apps are also very handy for finding people to practice Russian with.

 

Building Your Professional Network (It's All About Connections)

 

It's wonderful to make friends, but networking is also important if you plan to stay in Russia for the long haul. Here's why:

 

• Become an Event Hopper: Network by going to industry events, conferences, and workshops. Prepare a short and concise "elevator pitch" so that you can introduce yourself in the best possible manner.

 

•  Alumni Power: Contact alumni from your institution who work in Russia. They can give you valuable feedback about the job market and help you plan your career.

 

•  LinkedIn is Okay, But…: LinkedIn is used in Russia, but VKontakte seems to be preferred for professional networking. Use LinkedIn for connecting with global people, but consider having a presence on VK as well.

 

•  Find a Mentor (Your Career Advisor): Having someone familiar with the Russian business world as your advisor can make a big difference.

 

•  Be Active (and Persistent!): Networking doesn't happen overnight. Don't give up if you don't get desired results right away. Keep putting yourself out there and building connections.

 

•  Give to Get: Consider how you can benefit others in your network. Share your expertise, offer help, and be a resource.

 

Overcoming the Challenges (It's Not Always Easy)

 

•  The Language Barrier (Again!): It's a biggie, but don't give up. Keep practicing, utilize translation software, and get a language partner.

 

•  Cultural Differences (They're Real): Be considerate and receptive to Russian habits and traditions. Make an effort to learn and don't jump to conclusions.

 

•  Building Trust (It Takes Time): Russians value trust, so take your time and be reliable. Show that you're genuine and that you care about having a long-term partnership.

 

Bottom Line:

 

Networking and befriending Russians takes effort and a willingness to get out of your comfort zone. But I assure you, it's well worth it. By embracing Russian culture, being a participant in social society, and forming genuine relationships, you'll have a network of support and have a better time than you ever thought possible. So take a leap, take the adventure, and start making friends with the amazing people that you'll encounter! Удачи! (Good luck!), and have fun!

 

SIMPLE ADMISSION PROCESS

No hefty donations, no entrance exams, no hassle for documentation just your dream MBBS study and you. RUS OVERSEAS does everything for you from scratch. We make sure you don’t have to do rounds of rotation and get fed up with the process of admission. From beginning to end, we are with you.

 

THE PROCESS

Eligibility: 

• 50% in PCB (40% for SC/ST/OBC) in Class 12.
• Minimum 17 years by December 31 of the admission year.
•   NEET Qualification: Mandatory for Indian students.

 

Invitation letter: 

After RUS OVERSEAS submits your documents in the university. The university issues you an invitation letter. 

 

Visa process: 

Once the invitation letter arrives. The company will start your visa processing and in a few days you will be on the plane to Russia. 

HOW RUS OVERSEAS HELPS YOU IN YOUR JOURNEY

RUS OVERSEAS has the experience of more than a decade. Our team is supportive and cares for the students wholeheartedly. We are available 24/7. Your one stop solution for MBBS abroad is us. We at RUS OVERSEAS will never disappoint any student or parent in their fulfilling journey with us.

 

CONTACT US

Phone: +91 9560533703

Email:  info@rusoverseas.com