10 Examples of Non-Awkward Networking Ideas for Your User Conference
Does anyone else get chills up their spine when they hear the word networking? To be totally truthful, I definitely do even as an event planner. For my fellow introvert, networking at events can sometimes be a little forced and uncomfortable. However, despite the initial discomfort, networking is an incredibly important and beneficial activity to participate in at any event.
One of the main benefits of networking is the opportunity to make new connections and expand your professional network. Attending events and conferences allows you to meet and interact with people from different backgrounds, industries, and levels of experience. These connections can lead to new job opportunities, collaborations, and even friendships.
Networking also allows you to learn and grow from others in your field. Attending events and talking to others in your industry can give you valuable insights and perspectives on the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities. It can also help you stay up to date on the latest developments and technologies in your field.
Last, but certainly not least, networking gives you the ability to build your personal brand and reputation. You can showcase your skills, knowledge, and expertise. This can help you establish yourself as a thought leader and expert in your industry.
Despite the potential awkwardness, it is important to push past your comfort zone and actively participate in networking opportunities at events. As a planner. It’s important to foster networking opportunities that are creative and lead to organic conversation. In this blog post, we will cover 10 ideas to create meaningful networking experiences at your next user conference.
1. Speed Networking
Speed networking is a fun and efficient way to connect attendees in a short amount of time. Participants rotate between tables or stations for short, timed conversations with different attendees. This allows attendees to quickly introduce themselves and make new connections. Make this part of a game and give attendees prizes for the most connections!
2. Networking Breaks
Scheduling structured breaks throughout the conference for attendees to network with each other is important, but hard to make a creative experience. This could include coffee or lunch breaks, or even designated networking sessions. This will give attendees the opportunity to connect with others in a more relaxed and informal setting. Provide some structure to the break to get attendees talking. Whether you match lanyard colors based on industry, put a sticker on their badge based on job title, give them a button to match use cases, or make them pull out a random key in a hat to unlock another attendee’s lock, try to get creative here and give people a reason to chat.
3. Happy Hours
Host a networking reception or happy hour after the conference sessions have ended for the day. This is a great way to end the day on a positive note and give attendees the opportunity to unwind and connect with others in a more relaxed setting.
4. Mobile Event App
Having an event app is one of the easiest ways to let virtual and onsite attendees engage with one another. Find an app that allows for connection, messaging, and setting up meetings. Most apps also allow you to create a game for onsite and virtual attendees to play. Finally, create a social wall in your app, so attendees can snap photos onsite and virtually.
5. Networking Zones
Designate a specific area of the conference as a “networking zone” where attendees can gather and connect informally. This could be a lounge area or a designated room where attendees can relax and connect with others.
6. Mentor Match Program
Organize a “mentor match” program where experienced attendees can connect with less experienced attendees for advice and guidance. This is a great way for attendees to learn from the experts in their industry.
7. Networking Game
Host a “networking game” or activity where attendees must interact with one another to complete a task or challenge. This is a fun way to break the ice and encourage attendees to connect with one another. Try a signature search or attendee bingo game that encourages attendees to meet and interact with one another. Don’t forget the prizes for those who finish the game!
8. Roundtable Discussions
Organize small group discussion or roundtable sessions on specific topics to facilitate deeper connections and conversations. This will allow attendees to connect with others who share their interests and passions. Make sure to have an expert leading the interactions for a smooth session.
9. Branded Networking Sparkers
Have attendees wear different branded networking “sparkers”. This could include name tags that are different designs, t-shirts that are unique, different lanyard colors, branded stickers, etc. Have attendees get together in groups during networking sessions based on their unique branded group.
10. Business Card Exchange
It may seem old fashion, but encourage attendees to bring business cards and provide a central location for attendees to leave their cards for others to take. This will allow attendees to easily connect with others at and after the conference.
The Bottom Line?
In conclusion, networking is a crucial aspect of any in-person user conference event. By incorporating these unique and effective networking ideas, you can create opportunities for attendees to connect, engage and build relationships with each other. Remember to align the networking activities with the conference's goal, audience and venue, and create opportunities for attendees to connect in a relaxed and informal setting.
Not Sure Where to Start?
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