We have discussed the benefits of networking but the challenge in this day and age is connecting the online with the offline. We are all so connected online but this can be quite isolating; We are all about community building and connecting talent and we want to bring people together but this begs the question, how do you connect to people face to face that share the same interests or enable you to expand your business network. Whether you’ve moved to a new city or you’ve lived there for 10 years meeting people with new and fresh ideas is always invaluable. These are 5 online sites that are bridging the gap between online and offline, and we think they’re doing it very well!
1. Meetup
Meetup is all about connecting people with common interests, activities and hobbies. Whether you want to stick to what you know or you’ve decided that it is time to branch out and try something new. Even though the connections are initially made online, the real impact is made when the member actually “Meetup” and connect, discuss, and practice activities related to their shared interests.
2. Facebook
It is tried and trusted, with it’s 2.45 billion users surely you’d be able to get to know someone who is like-minded. The way it uses pages, groups and events which can all be used to connect with people. The simple use of hashtags and seeing what mutual friends people have can help to connect face to face.
3. Eventbrite
Eventbrite is bringing people together through real-life experiences. Being accessible around the world it is the perfect platform to hop onto to see what is happening in your area. It is all about people who want to create, share and find events that will enrich your lives, whether they’re a festival, marathon or competition it is an amazing way to meet new people.
4. Bumble
You might only know Bumble as the dating app where women make the first move but what you might not know is that they have branched out and now have Bumble BFF and Bumble Bizz. If you’re looking to expand your business network Bumble Bizz could be your next move, it puts you in contact with mentors and helps you to foster new career opportunities.
Startup Grind is the largest independent startup community. It educates and inspires entrepreneurs nurtures startup ecosystems in over 125 countries through events, media and partnerships. Their main focus is the monthly events which showcase founders, innovators and educators who will share what they’ve learned on their journey to become successful.
Now for this one, there does need to be someone bringing you all together but it is a great way to plan events, share events, connect people and get them to sign up and eventually meet face to face. We believe that this is where the most authentic connections will be made.
