Relationships are key in any financial services advisory role – whether that's private equity, wealth management, investment banking or commercial and corporate banking – but in the Middle East it's arguably doubly the case.

When it comes to finding a job, having the right contacts can often give you the edge and some of the best roles can be found through personal referrals.

As one senior private equity professional told us previously "You have to rely heavily on your network to fish out the role. Most recruiters will claim to have roles, but in my experience they exaggerate, or the job ends up being taken directly by a candidate who had stronger network."

Effective networking, therefore, is essential, but any financial services professionals should be aware of the rules to abide by in the Middle East when attempting to open doors in the region.

1. Be prepared to talk about yourself

Small talk is an art form in Western markets, but it's generally a prelude to getting down to business. In the Middle East, especially when dealing with local businessmen, the chances are that you won't be allowed to tout your wares or talk up your professional attributes at all, particularly during the initial meeting.

"Some candidates from London were telling me about an occasion where they kept on trying to talk about their career to a senior local banker in Dubai, and they just steered the conversation back to their family," says Matthew Lewis, director – Middle East & Africa at Boyden Executive Search. "People here want to know as much about an individual as they do their business. It's relationship, not transaction driven."

2. Accept any social invitations from contacts you respect

Industry events are all well and good, but more doors can be opened in a social setting, suggests one senior investment banker in the region.

"I find the best approach is to get an introduction from a mutual acquaintance who is well regarded by the individual you wish to network with," he says. "The best contacts I make are at social events hosted by mutual friends."

3. Get your name out there

In the winter months, the conference circuit, particularly in Dubai, is buzzing. Be selective, but make sure you make it along to a few events and if the opportunity to present or speak on a panel emerges, accept it.

"Very often, experts in particular fields are reluctant to talk at events even if it's on a hot topic where their knowledge could be applied," says Lewis. "Being visible is essential and we'd encourage anyone to put themselves forward if they want to grow their profile in the region."

"These events are great for cementing bonds with existing contacts and to get your name 'out there' if you are presenting or hosting debates," says the senior banker.

4. At networking events, have a goal in mind but don't force the issue

In Western markets, financial services professionals attend regular 'structured' networking events, whereby a brief conversation is usually followed up by an exchange of business cards and the vague hope that someone will be interesting in following up with you. This is not the way to mix with the people worth talking to in the Gulf, even in a more formal setting, suggests another senior private equity professional in Saudi.

"Anyone who is clearly just there to network comes across very annoying, and key people in Middle East will not give these people more than five minutes," he says. "Try and find some common ground, whether that's personal life or your line of work and then subtly mention whatever it is you really wanted to discuss. This is still a risk, but at least you will have laid some foundations."

5. Anticipate the follow up

There are two things to consider here; firstly, how you intend to follow up on successful networking encounters and secondly, that you're in shape for when someone decides to follow up with you.

"It's important to keep a dialogue going; follow up with an e-mail or phone call and bear in mind that this is not just a chance to ask for help, but to prove to that person you can benefit them," says Lewis.

These days, people are more likely to check out your online profile. In a job-seeking context this means ensuring that your social media presence and digital CV is concurrent with the skills and attributes you've espoused during the networking event. Any inconsistencies could count against you.

Similarly, any other conference appearances, media appearances or (intelligent) blog entries that can be found online could work in your favour.