Do Networking Meetings Still Matter in the Age of Social Media?
In a world where you can connect with anyone—from your neighbor to an industry CEO—at the click of a button, it’s fair to ask: do in-person networking meetings still hold value?
After all, social media offers limitless reach, convenience, and visibility. You can post, comment, and message your way into nearly any conversation. But while digital networking has transformed how professionals connect, it hasn’t replaced the human element that in-person meetings deliver.
The Enduring Power of Face-to-Face Networking
There’s something uniquely powerful about being in the same room with others who share your professional drive and curiosity. A handshake, an authentic smile, a spontaneous conversation over coffee—these moments create trust and chemistry that digital platforms struggle to replicate.
In-person events:
Build deeper relationships – People remember you more easily when they’ve met you in person.
Encourage meaningful dialogue – Face-to-face discussions often go beyond surface-level introductions.
Foster accountability – When you make commitments in person, you’re more likely to follow through.
Create serendipity – Chance encounters can lead to opportunities you never would have found online.
In short: social media starts the conversation. In-person networking deepens it.
What to Look for in a Networking Event
Not all networking meetings are created equal. Some are little more than business card exchanges, while others can be game-changers for your professional growth. When deciding where to invest your time, look for events that are:
Purposeful – The event should have a clear focus, theme, or industry niche that aligns with your goals.
Structured – Quality events offer guided networking, roundtables, or facilitated discussions—not just mingling.
Value-driven – Look for sessions that include learning components (e.g., speakers, workshops, or hot seats) so you walk away with insights, not just contacts.
Relational, not transactional – The best environments encourage genuine connection and collaboration, not sales pitches.
Sustained – Networking shouldn’t end when the event does. Events that include follow-up opportunities or community groups help relationships continue to grow.
Blending the Best of Both Worlds
The future of networking isn’t either/or—it’s both/and. Use social media to connect, research, and stay visible; use in-person events to build trust and deepen relationships. Together, they form a powerful cycle of visibility, credibility, and opportunity.
So yes, networking meetings still matter—but only when they’re done with intention.
This is exactly why I am hosting this small business networking event.
⏰ As a small business owner, every hour matters.
Yet too often, “networking” means:
❌ Awkward, unstructured conversations
❌ Meeting people who can’t make decisions
❌ Swapping business cards that go nowhere
This event is different.
✅ Networking done right — no more walking blindly into a room hoping to connect.
✅ Meet the right people — business owners and decision-makers ready to collaborate, refer, and do business.
✅ Position yourself as a go-to expert — build credibility and trust where it counts most: face-to-face.
✅ Level up your business — learn best practices from presenters and peers.
All while enjoying a hot buffet🍖and delicious wine🍷.
If you’re looking to:
• Build meaningful B2B relationships
• Generate high-value referrals
• Connect with like-minded entrepreneurs
👉 This event was designed with you in mind.
