Let’s meet in-person – why it makes all the difference!
26. Mai 2023
In today’s digital age, where virtual connections and online platforms dominate our social and professional interactions, it’s easy to overlook the value of in-person networking. However, despite the convenience and reach of online networking, there are still compelling reasons why face-to-face interactions remain essential for personal and professional growth.
First and foremost, in-person networking allows for genuine and authentic connections. That’s an experience that I keep making again and again. Meeting someone in real life enables us to pick up on subtle cues such as body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice that are often lost in digital conversations. These non-verbal cues provide valuable insights into a person’s character, intentions, and sincerity. It simply brings you closer to your conversation partner. And it makes the interaction more lasting. Building trust and rapport are vital in establishing meaningful relationships, and meeting face-to-face allows for the development of a deeper connection that can be challenging to achieve solely through online channels.
Community and belonging
Moreover, in-person networking fosters a sense of community and belonging. Attending industry conferences, trade shows, or local events brings professionals from diverse backgrounds together in a shared physical space. Ever since Covid showed us how it is to meet only digitally, it enhanced my sensation of how much more valuable in-person meetings are. Engaging in conversations, exchanging ideas, and learning from peers in a live setting can lead to unexpected collaborations, mentorship opportunities, or even lifelong friendships. The sense of camaraderie and support gained from networking in person can be invaluable in overcoming professional challenges and staying motivated on our career paths. Especially the last part is extremely important, I have learned.
Another aspect about in-person meetings is the immediate feedback in real-time. Instant feedback allows us to refine our communication skills, adapt our message to resonate better with our audience, and make a lasting impression. Additionally, the spontaneity of in-person networking often leads to spontaneous discussions, impromptu brainstorming sessions, and on-the-spot problem-solving, all of which can generate fresh insights and innovative ideas.
Show yourself 360 degrees
Lastly, in-person networking allows us to showcase our personality and unique qualities more effectively. In a world where digital profiles and resumes abound, standing out from the crowd can be challenging. However, meeting someone face-to-face allows us to make a lasting impression through our charisma, confidence, and enthusiasm. The way we carry ourselves, engage in conversation, and convey our expertise in person can leave a memorable impact on others and set us apart from our online competitors.
While online networking has undoubtedly revolutionized how we connect and communicate, the importance of in-person networking should not be underestimated. The ability to form genuine connections, cultivate a sense of community, receive immediate feedback, embrace serendipity, and showcase our unique qualities are all compelling reasons why face-to-face interactions remain crucial in our personal and professional lives. Balancing both online and in-person networking approaches can help us build a well-rounded network that accelerates our growth, fosters meaningful relationships, and creates opportunities that can shape our future success. Go out and meet people! And don’t hesitate to reach out for a personal meeting with me!
