Networking has always been a key driver of business growth, but recent technological advancements and shifting communication trends are transforming how people connect. The rise of automation, virtual networking, and the blending of networking and marketing events are reshaping the landscape. At Presso Network, we stay ahead of these trends to ensure event organisers can make the most of emerging networking opportunities. Here’s how networking is evolving and what it means for your events.
Automation: Smarter Follow-Ups and Relationship Building
Automation is revolutionising networking by making follow-ups and relationship management seamless. It’s no longer just about meeting the right people—it’s about maintaining connections effortlessly.
- Automated Follow-Ups: Tools like Rebump and HubSpot automate follow-up emails, ensuring no connection goes cold. Attendees can schedule reminders and automated touchpoints right from the moment they meet someone.
- AI-Powered Matchmaking: Event apps now leverage AI to suggest relevant connections based on attendees' profiles and interests, making networking more efficient.
- Chatbots for Engagement: AI-driven chatbots help answer event-related questions, introduce attendees to each other, and facilitate post-event engagement.
Event Insight: As an event organiser, leveraging automation within your event app can create a more interactive and engaging experience for attendees, reducing friction in follow-ups and making networking effortless.
The Rise of Virtual & Hybrid Networking Events
The shift towards digital networking has been accelerated in recent years, making virtual events a staple of professional engagement. According to recent industry reports, more than 50% of professionals have attended virtual networking events in the past few years.
- Global Accessibility: Virtual networking removes geographical barriers, allowing attendees to connect with professionals worldwide.
- Lower Costs & Convenience: No travel costs, no venue bookings—just high-value networking from the comfort of your home or office.
- Hybrid Events: Combining in-person and virtual elements allows attendees to choose how they engage, creating a more inclusive networking environment.
Event Insight: If you’re hosting an event, incorporating virtual elements, such as live Q&As, breakout rooms, or AI-driven networking, can significantly increase participation and accessibility.
Networking Events as Powerful Marketing Tools
Networking events have evolved beyond simple meet-and-greets—they are now recognised as highly effective marketing tools.
- Data-Driven Insights: Businesses are using event data (such as attendee behavior and engagement metrics) to refine their marketing strategies.
- Brand Authority & Thought Leadership: More brands are leveraging networking events to position themselves as industry leaders.
- Rising Demand: A Bizzabo study found that 41% of marketers believe events are the most effective marketing channel, surpassing digital advertising and email marketing. This is a 32% increase since 2017.
Event Insight: For event organisers, this means shifting the focus from just creating networking opportunities to delivering value-driven marketing experiences that engage attendees and sponsors alike.
The Future of Networking: Digital & In-Person Balance
While digital networking is gaining momentum, face-to-face interactions remain the gold standard for relationship-building and trust. The key is blending technology with human connection:
- Use AI matchmaking tools to enhance networking efficiency.
- Encourage structured networking sessions to help attendees connect meaningfully.
- Offer post-event engagement tools like community platforms and follow-up email sequences.
As networking continues to evolve, embracing both digital and in-person strategies will be crucial for event success. Event organisers who leverage new technologies while maintaining the human touch will create the most valuable networking experiences.
Need help integrating digital networking tools into your next event? Presso Network specialises in building event apps, websites, and digital strategies that enhance attendee engagement and networking success. Get in touch to learn more! 🚀