One of the main values of live events is to connect attendees and foster relationships—aka networking! But for many, especially those among younger generations, the thought of mingling and meeting new people can be intimidating or feel too forced.
At Sequence, we’re always looking for ways to make forming connections feel more organic through layout, thoughtful prompts, interactive programming, and even just the right timing. It’s about creating conditions where conversation can flow, and attendees can get the most value out of being there live. A win-win!
Pick the right format
As we’ve discussed before, you’ll want to choose the right format based on your target audience and event goals when it comes to effective networking. If a lot of the attendees already know each other, for example, a casual, unstructured reception can be a great way for them to interact freely and organically.
If it’s a larger group or folks who don’t already know each other, consider adding structured elements like speed networking or themed discussion tables that can help break the ice.
Design a connection-friendly layout
If you can, avoid using large conference-style tables for meetings that may hinder interactions. Instead, opt for open spaces with more intimate seating areas or communal standing tables where individuals can easily approach and engage with one another.
Additionally, place food and beverage stations strategically throughout the venue to create more natural gathering points. Creating cozy lounges as designated networking areas with comfortable seating can also provide a more relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
Consider creating designated areas or zones where attendees with shared interests or from specific industries can connect more easily. These areas can be denoted with signage or color coding. By providing targeted networking spaces, attendees can engage in conversations that are more relevant to their interests, facilitating meaningful connections and discussions.
Start the conversations early
Before the doors even open, start the introductions via a dedicated Slack channel or app, where you can provide questions and prompts to get the conversation going ahead of time.
You can also survey attendees about networking preferences beforehand during the registration process to help fuel the best approach. A formal or informal committee of trusted attendees could also make a great focus group!
Incorporate group activities
Organize attendees into smaller groups to do a volunteer activity, a group hike, or an inclusive challenge. Integrating these types of team-building activities can help people get to know one another in a less formal way, foster deeper connections, and make everyone feel more comfortable.
Consider the timing
When it comes to timing, slot in structured networking activities during the mid-morning or early afternoon when attendee energy is usually higher, and plan more informal networking toward the end of the day or evenings.
Definitely avoid a jam-packed agenda that leaves no room for spontaneous connections. The best conversations often happen in unplanned moments between sessions.
Plus, forcing constant interaction can exhaust attendees. So if you give them time to breathe, they’ll be more receptive to connecting.
Use technology
Technology can be a great way to enhance the networking experience. Event apps can help attendees filter and find people with similar interests, schedule meetings, or join discussions. Plus, features like QR codes on name tags can simplify the exchange of contact information.
Before, during, and after the event, monitor any related hashtags on platforms like LinkedIn to encourage conversation among attendees and to extend the reach of the event.
Account for differences
Physical and neurological abilities vary among attendees, so it’s important to create environments that accommodate everyone. To encourage successful networking, you need to proactively remove barriers such as providing tables of varying heights to accommodate wheelchair users or offering name tags printed in a large, high-contrast font with lanyards of different lengths or clip styles.
Also consider factors such as sensory-friendly spaces for neurodivergent individuals and sign language interpreters for those who are deaf or hard of hearing. By providing these accommodations you make networking easier for all in attendance.
A great networking experience can positively impact an attendee’s engagement during an event as well as increase the chances of them participating in future events. By making networking natural and organic using the above techniques, your attendees will leave feeling like they spent their time productively—and had some fun along the way.
Ready to build your event and begin networking? Learn how Sequence can help you.