Event Networking Activities Attendees Actually Want to Try

Event Networking Activities to Try at Your Next Event

Dice Networking 

Format: Picture this: a singular dice (or cube), each face labelled with prompts like “Share a bizarre fact about yourself,” “What’s the most ridiculous work-related mishap you’ve survived?” or “Recount a time you (hilariously) misunderstood a business term.” Attendees roll the cubes and let the stories and laughter flow. 

Goal: To encourage creative conversation starters and spontaneous networking. No more awkward silences or forced intros – just roll the dice and let quirky prompts spark genuine, fun conversations and connections. It's a budget-friendly event networking activity guaranteed to get attendees talking.
 

Experiential Networking Zones 
 

Format: Transform parts of your event space into interactive adult playgrounds. Imagine a zone with VR headsets for trendy tech adventures, another with a mini cooking class, and perhaps a third with a hands-on event playlist creation station. Attendees wander through these zones, diving into experiences and striking up conversations as they go. 

Goal: To provide hands-on activities that naturally lead to conversations. These zones act as conversational magnets. People get caught up in the excitement of the activity and, before they know it, they’re deep in discussion with fellow participants. It’s networking disguised as playtime – proven to be irresistible and effective, regardless of age. 

Networking Barista Booths 

Format: Drinks and networking go hand (and cup) in hand. Set up booths with all the essentials for DIY coffee, cocktails, mocktails, juices or milkshakes – or go for a combination. Think of it as a mixology station for all occasions. Attendees can chat while frothing milk or muddling mint. 

Goal: To create a casual, engaging setting for networking over beverages. Forget stiff handshakes – here, connections are made over latte art and cocktail shakers. The casual vibe turns brewing a drink into an opportunity for relaxed, genuine conversation. Plus, everyone leaves with a beverage and maybe a new friend. 

Networking with Virtual Pen Pals 

Format: Before the event, pair attendees up as digital pen pals (bonus points if you use your event management software to partner based on interests, location, or job). They can exchange emails or chat online, swapping stories and interests. When the event rolls around, they meet in person, transitioning their digital camaraderie into real-world rapport. 

Goal: To build initial connections online that transition into face-to-face networking. Starting online means that by the time attendees meet, they’re more “old friends catching up” than “awkward strangers making small talk.” It’s networking with a head start, ensuring meetings are more like reunions with a shared history to discuss. 

Event Networking Passports 

Format: Sometimes, it is about quantity. Give attendees "networking passports" that get stamped each time they engage with someone new. Instead of moving seats, attendees make sure to introduce themselves to a variety of people around them, collecting stamps as they go. Prizes can be awarded based on the number of stamps collected. 

Goal: To create dynamic interactions and surprise connections. The key is to keep the spirit of the networking activity alive by ensuring everyone enjoys fresh interactions and lively conversations. With an inclusive and engaging activity, everyone can partake in the excitement, meet new people, and potentially win prizes like a gift basket or meal voucher.