Opinions expressed by businesstraverse.com contributors are their own.
One of the key challenges facing both established and new entrepreneurs is connecting with the right people and building a true business network that will lead to mutually beneficial growth and progress. The saying applies to all industries worldwide: “It’s not always what you know, but who you know.” Networking is a process of sharing; an invaluable opportunity to connect, build and amplify. By expanding your network, you can raise awareness of your project/brand, grow your profits, secure investments and much more.
As technology becomes more and more embedded in and at the heart of our everyday interactions, networking will look very different in the very near future.
Networking in the metaverse
The metaverse is here for the long haul. A quick Google search turns up over a billion results. Major organizations, such as JP Morgan, HSBC, American Express and Qualcomm, are all jumping on the metaverse rocketship with no signs of slowing down. So, what is it about the metaverse that makes it so appealing to the world? The simple explanation is: people crave connection and new technology. Pair the two together and you get a simulated digital environment that uses augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and blockchain, along with social media concepts, to create spaces for rich user interaction that mimics the real world.
My prediction is that networking in the metaverse will become the norm in all industries worldwide. Despite our appeal to the metaverse, there is something unique about the bonds built through face-to-face interaction. As we immerse ourselves more and more in technology-based interaction, those moments of face-to-face interaction will increase in value.
Related: Here’s What the Future of Networking Will Look Like
Different channels to network
Over the past 20 years, LinkedIn has been the most viable option for professional networking. There’s no doubt that this has been a valuable resource for entrepreneurs and businesses, but more organizations are looking at other, more effective, and targeted ways to gather people to connect. It’s not just about networking — it’s about networking with the right people, at the right time, in the right way. Network and Chill’s mission is to offer innovative and driven individuals from different sectors an unparalleled opportunity to come together in a social, relaxing and exclusive environment. To facilitate and further personalize the member experience, N&C has also developed an exclusive member business mobile app that provides instant access to invaluable information and resources to support emerging professionals and start-ups. They also provide opportunities for founders to find new customers, potential partners, and investors and get feedback on new ideas.
My prediction is that, as the world begins to recover from the Covid-19 pandemic, after a period of yearning for face-to-face interaction, networking of all forms will flourish – greater than the 21st century has ever seen.
Related: 3 Strategies for Networking in the Postpandemic World
More international travel to connect
Networks are heading for expansion, both locally and globally. As mentioned, we are all desperate for face-to-face contact after nearly three years of lockdown and social distancing.
My prediction is that more and more individuals will travel internationally to meet and interact in person for business meetings, exchange ideas and make deals. Having networks and space (virtual and otherwise) to do this is imperative, especially as we see the world innovating at an exponential rate. It is essential to have a one-stop shop to connect startups with like-minded brands, founders, marketing professionals and companies, providing advice and connections to guide and support individuals on their entrepreneurial journey. We are always learning and our community is learning along with us.
Many entrepreneurs have an idea, but may not have the funding, mentor, or contact person to develop the idea. Someone who doesn’t have access to the right resources or connections may have an idea that could change the lives of millions of people. We see the importance of bridging the gap between just an idea and a successful project/enterprise/product, and that’s where networking comes in.
