A speed networking event is an accelerated way to meet people, get business contacts, and build community. For chambers and regional associations, it is a great opportunity to unite your local business members. Speed networking events can also be hosted as a way to boost community within your association.
An event like this can be hosted in person or virtually. We have compiled helpful tips for both so that you can choose the best route for your group.
In-Person Speed Networking
All you need to pull off a great event is a group of people, an open space, tables and chairs, a timer, and some conversation prompts. To ensure that each attendee has a chance to talk with everyone, have half of your group sit in one place while the other half of the group rotates through the stations.
People who have attended speed networking events say that the sweet spot for conversation length is three minutes. Call out each 3-minute rotation, until everyone has cycled through; it ends when everyone is with the person they talked to first.
If your event has an extremely large number of attendees, you can pre-set the number of rotations you will do instead of cycling through everyone.
Set up each station with a list of conversation prompts and pens and paper for people to exchange contact information and take notes.
At the end of your event, build in time for lingering so that people can build on their initial interactions.
Virtual Speed Networking
While there are many virtual meeting platforms to choose from for your event, Zoom is a great option because it allows up to 50 breakout rooms that can be pre-assigned or created at random during the event. The virtual event can essentially run the same way as in-person, with attendees rotating through breakout rooms for three minutes each.
When hosting virtually, you may consider putting 5-8 people in each breakout room and letting them talk for longer. It can be challenging to connect and start conversations online, so larger breakout groups could ensure the conversation keeps flowing smoothly and everyone feels comfortable.
Another way to encourage conversation is by providing a new topic for all the groups to discuss after every rotation. The Zoom organizer is able to broadcast a message to all of the groups at one time; this is how you will assign the topic and let groups know when the timer is almost up.
As the virtual networking event host, make sure everyone helping you has an established role, such as moderator or technical help.
Speed Networking is Worth the Effort
A speed networking event is simple to host, and immensely beneficial for your members. It quickly builds community and forms relationships. Whether in person or virtually, following these instructions and tips for your event will allow you to pull it off without a hitch.