Strategies from LSAV Powerhouse to spark real connection & community. 

Engaging networking opportunities are no longer a “nice-to-have”—they’re a core expectation for attendees. Whether you’re hosting a leadership summit, a multi-track conference, or an immersive brand activation, people come not just to learn but to connect, collaborate, and build lasting professional relationships. 

At LSAV Powerhouse, we’ve produced hundreds of events where networking is a central component. From structured breakout conversations to unexpected experiential moments designed to spark conversation, we know that great networking doesn’t happen on its own—it’s intentionally designed. 

Here’s how to create engaging, meaningful networking opportunities that elevate your event and deliver value long after attendees head home. 

Start with Clear Networking Goals

Before designing any activity, determine why networking matters for this event. 

Your attendees may want to: 

• Build cross-functional relationships 

• Meet industry thought leaders 

• Discover new vendors or partners 

• Spark team alignment 

• Share knowledge and best practices 

When you understand the purpose, you can tailor activities that support it—whether that’s structured roundtables, casual lounges, or technology-driven matchmaking. 

Create Spaces Designed Specifically for Connection

Networking doesn’t thrive in hallways where people are rushing. It thrives in environments built for conversation. 

Consider incorporating: 

• Dedicated networking lounges with soft seating, charging stations, and branded design elements 

• Coffee or cocktail activation zones with intentional gathering points 

• Sponsor-integrated conversation pods that double as engagement opportunities 

• Quiet corners or decompress zones for introverts who prefer small-scale interactions 

Great networking spaces are comfortable, beautifully designed, and strategically located to maximize flow. 

Schedule Networking at the Right Times

Timing is everything. When networking slots are too early, too late, or packed between heavy sessions, engagement drops. 

Best practices: 

• Add a welcome networking hour before general sessions begin 

• Build in longer breaks to give conversations time to flourish 

• Offer structured afternoon roundtables after content-heavy mornings 

• End the day with a casual reception, giving attendees a low-pressure environment to mingle 

Attendees participate more when networking is woven naturally into the event rhythm—not forced on top of an already intense schedule. 

Use Technology to Match Attendees With Shared Interests

Event technology can turn passive encounters into intentional connections. 

Leverage event apps or software to: 

• Suggest connection matches based on job title, interests, or goals 

• Allow attendees to schedule micro-meetings onsite 

• Send push notifications encouraging meetups 

• Track engagement to refine future events 

Digital matchmaking ensures attendees don’t leave networking up to chance—they leave with meaningful connections. 

Incorporate Interactive, Conversation-Starting Experiences

Sometimes the best networking moments happen over shared experiences. Consider adding: 

🎨 Interactive Installations 

Photo booths, digital graffiti walls, live art stations—perfect for sparking conversation and sharing content. 

🔍 Gamification 

Scavenger hunts, badge challenges, or “networking bingo cards” (like your United Airlines version!) that encourage attendees to talk to new people. 

🧩 Collaborative Workshops 

Problem-solving sprints, hands-on labs, or small group brainstorms where attendees naturally begin talking. 

🎤 Micro-discussions or “fireside chats in the round” 

Smaller conversations feel more intimate and encourage deeper connection. 

These elements not only enhance engagement—they make networking fun. 

Encourage Speakers & Leadership to Participate

High-value networking happens when executives, thought leaders, and presenters are accessible. 

Ideas include: 

• Speaker-hosted coffee roundtables 

• “Ask Me Anything” lounges 

• Post-session office hours 

• Meet-the-experts stations 

When leadership shows up, attendees feel seen—and the networking experience becomes far more impactful. 

Make Networking Inclusive and Accessible

The best networking opportunities consider all attendee needs. 

Be mindful of: 

• Seating options for those who can’t stand for long periods 

• Quiet spaces for neurodiverse attendees 

• Closed captions or ASL interpreters for casual micro-sessions 

• Clear signage and wayfinding 

• Food options that account for dietary restrictions 

• Culturally inclusive icebreakers and activities 

Inclusive networking creates a sense of belonging—and belonging fuels engagement. 

Facilitate Networking Through Structured Activities

Some attendees thrive with structure. Provide formats such as: 

• Speed networking sessions 

• Topic-based table rotations 

• Industry-specific meetups 

• Role-aligned mixers (e.g., marketing leaders, HR teams, sales directors) 

• Mentor/mentee pairings 

These formats reduce pressure, increase clarity, and ensure everyone walks away with valuable connections. 

Extend Networking Beyond the Event

Great events create long-term communities. 

Post-event, consider: 

• Sharing an opt-in attendee directory 

• Opening your event app for continued communication 

• Hosting follow-up virtual meetups or roundtables 

• Sending curated content based on session interests 

• Encouraging social engagement with branded hashtags 

When networking continues after the closing session, your event’s impact multiplies. 

Conclusion: Networking Should Feel Designed—not Accidental 

Engaging networking opportunities require thoughtful planning, intentional design, and strategic scheduling. By incorporating the right mix of structured activities, digital tools, inspiring spaces, and inclusive touchpoints, you transform networking from a checkbox item into a standout event differentiator. 

At LSAV Powerhouse, we specialize in crafting immersive environments and strategically designed experiences that bring people together—because when networking feels effortless, your attendees connect more deeply, your content resonates longer, and your event delivers greater ROI.