What are the most effective ways to stay informed about local events and issues when working abroad?

1 Use reliable sources

The first step to staying informed is to find reliable sources of information that cover the local events and issues that matter to you. You can use online platforms, such as newspapers, magazines, podcasts, blogs, or newsletters, that are based in or focused on your host country. You can also use global or regional media outlets that have correspondents or experts on the ground. Make sure to check the credibility, the bias, and the quality of the sources you use, and to diversify your perspectives by following different outlets and viewpoints.

2 Join online communities

Another way to stay informed is to join online communities that are relevant to your work, your interests, or your identity. You can use social media platforms, such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn, to follow local influencers, organizations, or groups that share information, opinions, or tips about your host country. You can also use online forums, such as Reddit, Quora, or Stack Exchange, to ask questions, get answers, or join discussions about local topics. Online communities can help you learn from other people's experiences, insights, or recommendations, and to connect with like-minded individuals.

3 Engage with locals

A third way to stay informed is to engage with locals who can offer you firsthand knowledge, advice, or feedback about your host country. You can use networking platforms, such as Meetup, Eventbrite, or Couchsurfing, to find and attend local events, workshops, or activities that interest you. You can also use language exchange platforms, such as Tandem, HelloTalk, or Italki, to practice your language skills and learn about the culture and the customs of your host country. Engaging with locals can help you build relationships, gain trust, and understand the context and the nuances of local events and issues.

4 Set a routine

A fourth way to stay informed is to set a routine that allows you to keep track of local events and issues without spending too much time or energy. You can use tools, such as Google Alerts, Feedly, or Pocket, to curate and organize the content that you want to follow. You can also use apps, such as Flipboard, Inoreader, or News360, to customize and aggregate the news that you want to read. Setting a routine can help you stay updated, focused, and informed without getting distracted, overwhelmed, or stressed.

5 Be curious

A fifth way to stay informed is to be curious and open-minded about your host country and its events and issues. You can use resources, such as books, documentaries, movies, or podcasts, to learn more about the history, the politics, the society, or the culture of your host country. You can also use opportunities, such as travel, volunteering, or mentoring, to explore, experience, and contribute to your host country. Being curious can help you develop your cultural intelligence and adaptation skills, and to appreciate the diversity and the complexity of your host country.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?