Events, conferences, and trade shows have evolved, making it more important than ever to modernize your networking approach. Attending a recent event, I noticed nametags now list only names - no companies... a sign of how digital-first networking has become. Today, your smartphone isn’t just a point of contact; it’s your networking powerhouse. Here’s how to make the most of it in 2025:
Leverage AI Insights: As you mingle, use LinkedIn’s AI-powered People Search or Smart Recommendations to quickly learn about new contacts, their current roles, and even shared connections or recent projects. For deeper engagement, reference LinkedIn’s new video intros or AI-generated highlights for a personalized touch.
Go Paperless: Business cards are old news. Instead, swap digital contact info instantly using QR codes or the latest NFC-enabled devices. A quick scan connects you on LinkedIn, ensuring your details are always up to date, while supporting your company’s sustainability initiatives.
Real-Time Conversation Starters: LinkedIn’s dashboard now provides conversation cues—such as recent posts, published insights, or mutual interests, making it easy to spark meaningful dialogue and establish credibility on the spot.
Put a Face to the Name: Event apps and modern registration lists offer AI-enriched profiles with headshots and job summaries, helping you find priority contacts fast. Use visual cues or LinkedIn’s photo-matching to recognize and approach key prospects.
Track Your Networking Journey: After the event, your connections and the context from each interaction are automatically organized in your LinkedIn activity timeline or your company’s CRM. Use smart reminders to follow up promptly and keep your networking momentum strong.
So if you see me at the next event, you’ll spot me with my phone in hand, ready to connect, scan, and build meaningful relationships with a modern, tech-enabled approach.
