As an event planner, you are aware of the invaluable advantages of personal encounters at face-to-face events. It’s not just about the quick exchange of business cards, but about creating real connections that foster long-term relationships and leave unforgettable memories. Participants are looking for unique experiences that are both inspiring and enriching. This is where creative networking ideas come into play to make your event stand out.
So let’s jump straight in and explore 10 networking ideas for your events.
Pre-event: The key to successful networking
A pre-event event can be crucial to maximise networking potential. It allows participants to get to know each other in a more relaxed environment, encouraging deeper and more productive interactions during the main event.
Advantages and challenges
- Early contacts: Participants have the opportunity to make valuable connections and start discussions before the main event.
- Relaxed atmosphere: Pre-events are often smaller and quieter, which makes it easier to have intensive and meaningful conversations.
- Icebreaker: These early meetings can help to ensure that the participants have already developed familiarity and self-confidence during the main event.
- Warm-up phase: Participants have the chance to get an idea of the other guests before the big event and have initial conversations, which makes it easier to get into the main event.
- Limited participation: Not everyone who comes to the main event can also take part in the pre-event, which can lead to a smaller group.
- Additional effort: Additional resources and costs are required for the organisation and implementation of a pre-event.
- Travel and accommodation costs: Participants travelling from further afield may have higher costs for travel and accommodation due to the additional days.
- Feeling of exclusivity: If the pre-event is too specific or elitist, some participants may feel excluded or not find the right contacts.
Speed dating: fast and effective networking
You are probably familiar with speed dating as a method of meeting new partners quickly. This efficiency is also ideal for networking. Imagine if your event participants could make lots of new contacts within a few minutes and change the person they talk to after each short round of talks. This dynamic process accelerates the process of getting to know each other and goes beyond traditional networking.
The speed dating principle can easily be adapted for professional events. Instead of romance, the focus is on the exchange of professional ideas and industry trends. Participants talk about relevant topics rather than personal preferences. By asking specific questions or specifying topics, you can ensure that the discussions are productive and focussed.
Advantages and challenges
- Fast networking: Numerous new contacts can be made in a short space of time.
- High level of participation: Every participant is actively involved and has the opportunity to present themselves.
- Overcoming inhibitions: The mould makes it easier to quickly overcome initial insecurities.
- Lack of time: The short conversations can be perceived as stressful or restrictive.
- Discomfort: Not everyone feels comfortable in this format or dares to actively participate.
- Imbalance: There is a danger that one dialogue partner dominates while the other hardly gets a chance to speak.
Topic tables: Networking according to interests
Imagine your participants having the opportunity to retreat to a quiet area and hold in-depth discussions in a relaxed atmosphere. This is exactly what networking lounges offer. These areas are perfect for high-quality interactions away from the hustle and bustle of the event. Networking lounges stand out thanks to their sophisticated design. They offer an oasis of calm in the centre of the event. Comfortable seating, atmospheric lighting and subtle background music create a welcoming atmosphere that invites you to network and linger.
Advantages and challenges
- Intensive conversations: deeper and more meaningful conversations take place in the lounge.
- Flexibility: The lounge is suitable for both one-to-one meetings and group discussions.
- Increased satisfaction: A well-designed lounge can improve the overall experience of the event.
- Space requirements: Not every location offers enough space for a lounge.
- Additional costs: Setting up a lounge may involve additional costs.
- Noise: An unfavourable location can lead to noise pollution.
Networking lounges: stylish and relaxed networking
At large events, it can be difficult to find the right people to talk to. Themed tables offer a targeted solution where participants can exchange ideas according to their areas of interest and make valuable contacts. The success of the theme tables depends on the selection of relevant and topical themes. Use surveys or pre-surveys to determine the interests of your participants. Whether industry trends, innovative technologies or proven methods – make sure that the topics are varied and appealing.
Tips for organisation and implementation
- Clear labelling: Label each table clearly with the respective topic.
- Moderation: An expert or moderator can steer the discussion and ensure that everyone has their say.
- Time management: Set time limits to keep the discussions focussed and give participants the opportunity to visit several tables.
- Provide materials: Handouts or infographics can enrich the discussions.
Advantages and challenges
- Focussed networking: Participants can find people with similar interests.
- Time saving: No more aimless searching for relevant dialogue partners.
- Diverse conversations: The opportunity to explore different topics brings variety.
- Relevance of the topics: Not every topic appeals to every participant.
- Space requirements: Sufficient space must be available for setting up the tables.
- Time management: The organisation of table changes requires careful planning.
Barcamp: An open format for dynamic networking
Barcamps, also known as “unconferences”, offer an innovative alternative to traditional conferences and workshops. In this flexible and democratic format, there is no predetermined agenda or fixed speakers. Instead, the participants design the programme themselves and actively participate in the exchange of knowledge. After the presentation of the proposed topics, the participants vote on which sessions interest them the most. The topics with the most votes will be included in the schedule. This grassroots democratic approach ensures that the content is relevant to the majority of those present.
Advantages and challenges
- Focus on participants: The interests and knowledge of the participants take centre stage.
- Diversity of topics: Anyone can make suggestions, which leads to a broad spectrum of topics.
- Intensive networking: The open format promotes dialogue and networking.
- Unpredictability: Without a fixed agenda, planning the day can be challenging.
- Variable quality: As there is no fixed speaker, the quality of the sessions can vary.
- Active participation required: Some participants may find it difficult to get actively involved.
Buddy system: Simple networking for event newcomers
At large events, it can be challenging for new participants to take the first step and network. The buddy system offers a solution here: newcomers are brought together with experienced participants, the “buddies”. They serve as mentors and guides who help the newcomers to find their way around, make contacts and overcome initial inhibitions. This not only facilitates networking, but also makes it much more effective.
Advantages and challenges
- Faster entry: Newcomers will find their way around more quickly thanks to the support of an experienced buddy and can enjoy the event right from the start.
- More effective networking: With a buddy at their side, newcomers can make contacts more easily, as the experienced partner already has a network and can make recommendations.
- Increased satisfaction: The feeling of support and guidance significantly increases the satisfaction and commitment of new participants.
- Matching pairings: It can be difficult to match the right buddies and newcomers so that both sides benefit from the partnership.
- Commitment of the buddies: Not every experienced participant is automatically a good buddy. It takes commitment and the willingness to actively support.
- Organisational effort: Implementing and managing a buddy system can require additional resources, especially for large events.
Technology-supported networking: the power of digital tools
Technology-supported solutions offer event planners numerous opportunities to improve the networking experience of their participants. These tools expand the traditional personal acquaintance and create new dimensions of exchange. Digital platforms open up a variety of ways to connect people by allowing participants to stay in touch before, during and after the event.
- Event apps: These apps not only serve as a source of information, but also as powerful networking tools. With integrated chats, special discussion channels and matchmaking functions, targeted connections can be made.
- Virtual business cards: Instead of collecting physical cards, participants can exchange their contact details digitally and in an environmentally friendly way with just one click.
Advantages and challenges
- Efficiency and reach: Digital tools enable fast and far-reaching contacts to be made, regardless of geographical restrictions.
- Targeted networking: With matchmaking functions and algorithms, participants can be specifically networked based on interests and professional backgrounds.
- Data analysis: Digital platforms often offer analysis functions that provide valuable insights into the behaviour and preferences of participants, making it easier to plan future events.
- Data protection: The use of digital tools increases the risk of data breaches. It is important to choose platforms with strict security measures that comply with data protection laws.
- Technical problems: Technical failures or malfunctions can impair the networking experience and cause frustration among participants.
- Learning curve: Not all participants are technically proficient. It can be difficult to ensure that everyone knows the tools and can use them effectively.
Interactive networking games: Fun and easy exchange
Networking can be intimidating, especially in large groups or when many participants don’t know each other. Interactive games are a great way to break the ice, lighten the atmosphere and help participants socialise in a fun way. Here are three creative game ideas that make it easier to get to know each other:
- Fact bingo: Each cell of the bingo card contains an interesting fact, such as "Has ever done skydiving" or "Speaks two languages fluently". Participants have to find colleagues who match the descriptions to fill in their card.
- Card swap: Everyone receives a card with a certain word or picture. The task is to find someone with a complementary card. For example, someone has a card with a key and someone else has a card with a lock.
- Networking poker: Participants are given cards with specific networking tasks or questions. The aim is to hand in as many cards as possible by completing the tasks or asking the questions.
Advantages and challenges
- Break down barriers: Games can help to overcome initial inhibitions and promote communication.
- Flexibility: There are a variety of games that can be customised to suit your needs.
- Simple realisation: Many games require only minimal preparation and materials.
- Not suitable for everyone: Some may feel uncomfortable playing games.
- Choosing the right game: Not every game is suitable for every target group or event.
- Time management: Some games may take longer than expected.
1:1 meeting: Targeted networking through planned meetings
Increase the networking potential of your event by allowing participants to arrange one-to-one meetings with other participants in advance. This not only encourages interaction, but also ensures that every encounter is purposeful and valuable.
How does this work?
- Matchmaking tools and event apps: These digital tools allow participants to identify potential dialogue partners in advance of the event based on shared interests or goals and to plan meetings.
- Clear meeting points: By providing dedicated areas such as lounges or numbered tables, participants can easily find their way around, ensuring a smooth process.
- Reserved time slots: A time slot reserved specifically for individual discussions prevents participants from having to switch between different programme items and enables focused, high-quality discussions.
Advantages and challenges
- Flexibility: Individual meetings can take place both in person and digitally, depending on the needs of the participants.
- In-depth discussions: In a 1:1 setting, topics can be discussed more intensively, which leads to more valuable insights.
- Targeted networking: Participants meet exactly the people who are relevant to them, which leads to high-quality interactions.
- Appointment management: Coordinating individual meetings can be logistically challenging at large events.
- Technical problems: Digital tools can occasionally cause technical difficulties.
- Space requirements: It can be challenging to provide enough suitable locations for one-to-one meetings at large events.
Networking in the evening: making contacts in a relaxed atmosphere
Evening events are more than just a relaxed end to an intensive day. They offer a valuable opportunity to deepen networking. In an informal environment, participants can build authentic relationships and make contacts that go beyond the formal programme of the main event.
Advantages and challenges
- Real encounters: In a relaxed atmosphere, participants can get to know each other better away from formal discussions and presentations.
- Extended networking time: Evening events extend the time for exchange, which is particularly useful when the daytime programme is packed.
- Creative networking activities: The evening offers space for innovative networking approaches that may not be realisable during the day.
- Background noise: Music and conversations can increase the noise level and make in-depth conversations difficult.
- Energy level: After a long day, some participants may be tired and have little interest in networking.
- Planning effort: A successful evening event that is both entertaining and promotes networking requires careful planning and coordination.
Polario Event App: Improved networking experiences
Our Software as a Service platform Polario offers numerous advantages to optimise networking at your event. With an event app, participants can not only network effectively, but also seamlessly integrate and improve the ideas presented. The app enables improved communication and ensures that all participants stay informed at all times.
Important functions of the Polario Event App:
Conclusion
Networking is at the heart of every successful event. There are many different approaches to promoting dialogue between participants. From speed dating and networking lounges to topic-specific tables and digital solutions – organisers have many ways to improve the networking experience.
Evening events create a relaxed atmosphere, which is ideal for deepening relationships. The buddy system and 1:1 meetings, on the other hand, encourage targeted interaction, while games and interactive formats lighten the mood and make it easier to get to know each other. Pre-Events legen einen soliden Grundstein für effektives Networking während der Hauptveranstaltung.
Digital tools, such as event apps, offer a practical way of providing participants with information quickly and easily and improving communication. These tools open up new and interactive channels for dialogue and networking. Innovation and flexibility are decisive factors for successful networking at events.
With the right strategy and a willingness to integrate new approaches, your events can become real networking hubs that not only impart knowledge but also create valuable connections.
