A proficient corporate event organizer understands the significance of providing robust networking opportunities, enhancing the perceived value of the event for attendees. When guests leave with valuable connections forged during the event, it establishes a positive reputation, making them prioritize future participation in your corporate events.
To optimize networking experiences at your corporate event, consider implementing the following seven tips that ensure attendees can foster meaningful connections and derive substantial value from their participation.
1. Create an Online Community
With nearly 50% of companies using social media to increase engagement before a corporate event, creating an online community is crucial to level up against the competition. Plus, it’s the perfect way to hype people up for your event, just like a pep rally before a big game. Look into networking apps and websites to create an excellent online platform for your attendees.
2. Provide Name Badges
Name badges with a name and company are standard at business events, but why not go the extra mile and add a feature to attendee badges that spark networking? Consider a color-code method that lets others know your role.
3. Plan Networking Activities
No matter how profound and empowering sessions are, a good break from seminars and speakers is necessary. It is the perfect time to connect speakers and attendees through engaging mid-session activities such as polls, breakout groups, session ratings, speed networking, charity opportunities, industry-related trivia, bingo, goal-setting workshops, scavenger hunts, roundtable discussions, etc.
4. Design a Networking Guide
Networking may naturally happen at your event, but to ensure people take advantage of the networking opportunities, create a networking guide that people can download or print off when they register for your event. Your guide should offer quality tips and tricks to follow throughout your event. Please don’t make the tips too general; make them specific to your event and the industries represented there.
5. Work in Group Networking Sessions
One-on-one setups may be intimidating for those who prefer group settings. Consider group networking opportunities such as group speed-dating rounds. Group sessions play a massive role in luring first-time event-goers and enhancing their experience.
6. Designate Networking Hubs
Networking hubs are an underrated and effective way to facilitate networking at your event. You can start by transforming water, snack, and coffee stations into networking hubs by adding signs with icebreaker questions and topic suggestions.
7. People Matching
Networking and dating have a lot of similarities. Both can be nerve-racking and uncomfortable, and you’ll only get together again if there’s a connection. It may take a lot of work, but it will be one of the best tools for your attendees. Try to pair people with similar interests and roles. Take into account their industry, hobbies, or even hometowns.
If your corporate event leaves a lasting impact, attendees will remember and value the experience. Creating organic networking opportunities can be challenging, but as the event host, you can facilitate connections and help attendees surround themselves with the right people. Following these seven tips will ensure that every attendee has ample networking opportunities.
source: https://andrewrobyevents.com/how-to-create-networking-opportunities-at-your-corporate-event/
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