Hybrid Networking Events Are Becoming Increasing Popular. Here’s Why.

Before the pandemic, everything was real.

During it, everything became virtual.

Now that it has receded, everything has become real again.

We have gone full circle.

When I first started extolling the virtues of virtual networking way back in 2018 as this LinkedIn article bears witness, it seemed almost conceptual.

Now some five years later, according to some straw polls I have conducted in my 500+ WhatsApp groups, it would appear that most people, like me, seem to prefer networking this way.

And it’s easy to see why: over and above saving a ton of time, money and carbon by not having to travel to ‘in person’ networking events, the global reach afforded by virtual business networking is undoubtedly its key USP.

If such an event were to take place in, say, Chicago, it will only attract people from the Illinois region.? By making such an event hybrid, the whole world can attend.

Converting an in-person networking event into a hybrid format, where attendees can participate both in person and virtually, requires careful planning and the use of technology to ensure a seamless experience for all participants.? But it is well worth the effort for the increasing amount of event planners that do.

I recently launched Virtual Power Networking which I describe as the epicentre of omnichannel hybrid virtual networking, where virtual and reality converge seamlessly.?

For the same cost as two cups of coffee and a croissant, anyone can now join my hitherto invite-only WhatsApp group ecosystem full of some of the world’s leading thought leaders and entrepreneurs.

Members can see what they all do (not possible in a standalone WhatsApp group) and a raft of other features.

This dynamic nexus serves as a hub for bridging the digital and physical realms, unlocking boundless opportunities for connection and collaboration.

It has been very rewarding witnessing people meet in person after they met virtually in my groups.??

This is the future of networking, where the lines between the virtual and real world blur, creating a new era of limitless possibilities.

And you’re welcome!