From Meh to Marvelous: 10 Fresh and Fun Virtual Networking Event Ideas to Take Your Online Networking Up a Notch
Picture this: You're at your desk, focused on a project when a new notification pings on your screen. It's an invitation to a virtual networking event. Do you feel a surge of excitement, or do you sigh and brace yourself for a session that is likely to be another mess of black boxes and forced connections? If you're feeling more of the latter, you're definitely not alone.
You understand that traditional virtual events can often fall flat, leaving attendees feeling disengaged and disconnected. So when it's your turn to organize one, why settle for the same old, uninspiring formats when you can create virtual events with fresh, exciting ideas? Virtual networking has gone from a novelty to a necessity, and this shift is not just changing the game but elevating it.
It's time to say “bye-bye-bye” to boring webinars and embrace innovative approaches that make every interaction engaging and memorable. Be it an organized, professional event or an enjoyable get-together, these 10 best virtual networking event ideas will take your virtual gatherings from bland to brilliant. But before we explore these ideas, it's essential to understand what virtual event networking is and why it's important.
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What is Virtual Event Networking?
Virtual networking events are about bringing people together – plain and simple. Like physical events, they aim to encourage interactions and relationship-building between participants. The only difference is that virtual event networking creates these opportunities online, not in a physical setting.
The transition from physical to virtual events may make networking challenging for some people since, historically, networking was done in person. However, with innovative virtual networking platforms such as Remo, participants can create real connections by taking advantage of the various tools available to build solid relationships and learn about industry trends. Check out our article on Maximizing Your Networking Opportunities at an Online Event to learn more about why networking is important in virtual spaces.
Now that we’ve covered the “why”, let’s jump right into the fun part — the “how”, with our top 10 virtual event networking ideas!
10 Virtual Networking Event Ideas for Online Interactions
1. Virtual Speed Mentoring Sessions
Speed mentoring pairs mentors and mentees for short, focused conversations, allowing participants to rotate between mentors. This format makes it a breeze to gain quick, actionable advice on careers, projects, or business, from industry veterans, leaving you enlightened and inspired. While speed mentoring is great for professional advice, the concept of speed networking can be adapted for broader purposes too. Whether people are seeking feedback on a new idea, exploring partnership opportunities, or just expanding their network, these brief interactions can lead to meaningful connections and open doors to new possibilities.
How It Works Online:
Using breakout rooms, participants are paired up for quick 5 to 10-minute mentoring sessions. After each session, mentees switch to a new mentor, offering a fresh perspective that can often lead to innovative solutions and new ideas. Platforms supporting timed breakout sessions and participant shuffles can easily manage this, ensuring a smooth and engaging experience.
Why Is It a Good Idea:
This virtual networking idea is efficient and impactful for everyone involved. It is designed to provide guidance and link up new people with each other across different levels of expertise. Plus, the fast-paced nature of speed mentoring sessions keeps everyone engaged and energized. This format is a powerful way to expand one's network rapidly. By interacting with multiple mentors or peers quickly, participants maximize their chances of connecting with individuals who share their passions or offer valuable perspectives. This dynamic approach turns brief encounters into potential opportunities for meaningful relationships and collaborations.
2. Virtual Movie Night Event with Discussion
Remember the early days of the pandemic when “Netflix Party” was all the rage? Friends and families would gather online, syncing their screens to watch a movie together. It was all about recreating that shared experience of going to the cinema or enjoying movie nights together, despite the physical distance. Fast forward to today, and this concept still holds the power to bring people together.
How It Works Online:
Host a virtual movie night on a platform that supports presentations or webinars, allowing you to reach and interact with a larger audience. Choose a film that your audience would like to watch, gather everyone together, and then follow it up with a lively discussion. Invite attendees to share their thoughts on the plot, cinematography, music, and much more afterward. This creates a space for meaningful dialogue while offering a structured topic for discussion.
Why Is It a Good Idea:
The shared experience of watching a film provides a natural segue into deeper discussions and interactions. This setup is not just about having a good time but also about connecting over a common interest. By focusing on a specific genre or theme, you’re attracting like-minded movie buffs or enthusiasts who already share a passion. This common ground makes it easier for participants to connect genuinely by talking about topics that excite them. It is a relaxed, entertaining way to network while still giving everyone a focus. (And, who doesn’t love a good movie!)
3. Themed Virtual Happy Hours
Raise your glass to themed virtual happy hours –a way for participants to unwind after a long day or week of work. Whether it is a trip to the galaxy with Star Wars, or a cozy evening inspired by The Great Gatsby's roaring '20s. Themed happy hours are a great way to mix business with pleasure. Encourage your guests to dress up and sip on theme-related drinks.
How It Works Online:
Everyone logs into a video call, dressed to impress in line with the theme. The fun does not stop there; you can throw in themed games, a trivia quiz, or even a virtual mixology class where everyone learns how to whip up a cocktail that fits the theme (Butter Beer, anyone?). It is a laid-back way to bring some personality and fun into the virtual event space.
Why Is It a Good Idea:
Themed happy hours are a great way to break the ice, making it easier for people to decompress and open up. It's a natural conversation starter, and who doesn't love a good theme? The buzz of excitement as everyone wears their best '20s attire or gets into a character, makes the event hard to forget. The personal touch of getting creative with outfits and surroundings adds a unique layer, turning casual networking into a core memory for everyone involved.
4. Virtual Workshops and Skill-Sharing Events
Why not turn your virtual networking event into a learning playground? Online workshops and skill-sharing sessions bring people together around a common interest. These sessions are both educational and engaging. They are ideal for learning about new software tools, perfecting a gourmet recipe, and more.
How It Works Online:
An expert (…or passionate) instructor takes the virtual stage, guiding participants through the skill/workshop on a video call. Throughout the presentation, attendees can jump in with questions and share their thoughts, making the experience interactive and dynamic. Once the main presentation wraps up, everyone splits into breakout rooms for some hands-on practice. Here, the instructor can move between rooms, offering personalized advice and helping with any challenges. Moreover, attendees can collaborate in small groups, brainstorming and problem-solving to keep the energy up. This will not only make learning fun but also foster meaningful connections.
Why Is It a Good Idea:
Virtual workshops and skill-sharing events create a collaborative environment that encourages interaction and networking. By immersing participants in engaging activities, these events shift the focus of people from worrying about how they come across to actively participating and enjoying the moment. When attendees are engrossed in a hands-on project or learning a new skill, the pressure of making small talk fades away, allowing for more genuine and easygoing conversations to flow. This shared engagement not only enhances the quality of conversations but also helps in building lasting connections. Plus, attendees leave with something valuable—new skills and new bonds.
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5. Virtual Fashion Gala
The devil may wear Prada but so can your audience!
If you’re looking for a super creative networking idea, why not host a virtual fashion gala! A virtual fashion gala combines the excitement of a fashion show with the opportunities of a networking mixer, providing a platform for fashion enthusiasts, designers, and industry professionals to showcase their style and connect with peers. This event is a chance to blend high style with high-impact networking, creating connections that are as memorable as your attendees' outfits.
How It Works Online:
The gala creates multiple touchpoints for participants to connect by mixing a fashion showcase with structured networking activities. Create a segment where participants can take center stage in a virtual runway show, flaunting their looks, explaining their inspiration, and even giving a short story about their fashion choices. Add another layer of fun by having a panel of fashion experts or fellow participants vote on categories like “Best Dressed” or “Most Creative Outfit.” Once the fashion show is wrapped up, the attendees can mingle and have discussions in an informal setting in a virtual lounge. If your audience are fashion enthusiasts, you can even consider inviting fashion experts to join and discuss the latest fashion trends and share insider tips.
Why Is It a Good Idea:
This virtual fashion gala is all about the three Fs – Fashion, fun, and friendships. Attendees get to showcase their outfits in a virtual runway show, mingling with others and sharing chic style secrets—all while making new connections. Breakout rooms offer a chance to chat with industry insiders about trends and career tips, providing valuable insights and fresh contacts. In the virtual lounge, attendees can kick back and engage in casual conversations with each other, building friendships in a relaxed setting. This idea can work for all sorts of audiences and easily fits into any event, no matter the theme or industry. Walking and rocking a look on a virtual runway adds a playful twist to an event, giving attendees a chance to step out of their comfort zones and show off their creativity. Ultimately, this virtual networking event idea provides an opportunity to bring people together and encourage conversations, making it easier for everyone involved to turn creative expression into meaningful connections and expand their network.
6. Virtual Talent Auction Event
Remember that episode of The Office where the team auctions off their quirky talents to raise funds? Michael Scott claimed to have front-row Bruce Springsteen tickets to create buzz (which wasn’t true, so let’s not do that). Imagine that fun, but online! With a virtual talent auction event, participants can flaunt their skills –be it singing, dancing, or even stand-up comedy. Then, others can bid (using virtual currency) for a chance to learn from them or enjoy a private performance.
How It Works Online:
Just like regular virtual talent shows, participants perform live during a video session. But, in a talent show auction, the audience can bid on exclusive experiences like personalized lessons or performances. The highest bidder gets the spotlight moment they have been waiting for. It is a simple, yet exciting take on a typical event that keeps everyone hooked.
Why Is It a Good Idea:
It is interactive, lighthearted, and encourages people to let loose and showcase what they are best at. Virtual auctions, especially those featuring exciting or unique items, create a buzz and a sense of friendly competition. As attendees bid on items, they engage with one another, strategize, and cheer each other on. This shared experience of participating in the auction breaks the ice and sparks conversations among attendees who bond over the exhilaration of a bidding war. It's a refreshing way to connect, turning what could be a simple activity into a memorable networking opportunity. Not to mention, a virtual auction talent event doubles as a great event sponsorship idea. Event sponsors get a natural way to get involved and promote their products/services, like a "travel package" or a "dinner for two". It's brand promotion at its finest.
7. Online Escape Rooms
Bring the excitement of a real-life challenge to your virtual event with an escape room adventure. Teams work together to solve puzzles and “escape” within a set time. It is a perfect way to blend fun with collaboration. And it creates an immersive experience that actively involves every participant and fosters networking.
How It Works Online:
Teams are placed in virtual rooms where they must collaborate to solve a series of puzzles before time runs out. Each puzzle solved brings them closer to the finish line, instilling a sense of accomplishment. It also encourages teamwork and communication throughout the challenge, making it a perfect idea for a team-building exercise as well. Of course, setting up these virtual escape rooms can be a bit complex though. Good news is – there are plenty of vendors out there who design such events for a living. Better news – we’ve compiled a list of them in our Remo Marketplace for you to check out.
Why Is It a Good Idea:
Remember the suspense and excitement of classic escape room tales like The Da Vinci Code or Indiana Jones? Or the immersive puzzles in Sherlock Holmes stories? These experiences tap into that same sense of adventure, leveraging the excitement of solving mysteries under pressure. For your target audience, it is a nostalgic nod to the thrill of puzzle-solving and adventure. As teams tackle challenges and solve clues, they talk to each other, brainstorm together, and share ideas. This collaborative effort leads to more conversations, more interactions, and more formed connections among participants—making it a perfect fit for your next virtual networking event.
8. Virtual Book Clubs
For the literature lovers out there, a virtual book club is a welcoming community. This is where you can combine networking with intellectual discussion. Your attendees can vote on a book, and you can then host a forum where they can come together in virtual meetings to share thoughts, insights, and interpretations.
How It Works Online:
Participants read the chosen book at their own pace and then gather in a virtual event to discuss it. Usually, you’d also select a moderator to lead the conversation. They ensure everyone has a chance to contribute and that the discussion stays stimulating and on track.
Why Is It a Good Idea:
Virtual Book Clubs offer a structured way to engage in thoughtful discussions and can be tailored to the interests of the group. It is an ideal way to provide a regular touchpoint for networking and relationship-building over time. These regular networking events focus on building a community of like-minded individuals with similar interests. This ongoing interaction helps form deeper relationships and encourages more meaningful conversations over time. As people become more familiar with each other, they’re more likely to eagerly participate in future events that may introduce a new idea or topic. As long as the virtual events align with their interests, people are naturally open to joining them. It’s a chance for everyone to dive into shared topics, swap ideas, and strengthen bonds within a growing community that feels like a natural fit. Lastly, this idea also serves as a launchpad for personal growth and inspiration.
9. Virtual Coffee Breaks Event
Who says your audience needs to be in the same office to enjoy a coffee break together? Virtual coffee breaks offer a casual moment where people can chat over their favorite brew. Much like how the iconic characters in Friends brewed their bonds over countless cups of coffee at Central Perk. A virtual coffee break offers a low-pressure setting for catching up and sharing stories.
How It Works Online:
Participants join your virtual event or meeting with their coffee in hand, ready to engage in light, informal conversations. There is no set agenda—just an open space to connect, unwind, and enjoy each other’s company. They can talk about their weekend plans, share interesting articles, or discuss a recent movie they watched.
Why Is It a Good Idea:
The friendly, inviting setting encourages attendees to feel at ease and be themselves, leading to more authentic and personal connections. Whether used for internal team-building or social gatherings, these virtual events offer more than just a chance to mingle and socialize. They also contribute to team cohesion and boost productivity by providing a mental break during longer work days. But a virtual coffee break is not only beneficial for remote employees, it can also work in social settings where a group of people can casually chat over a cup of coffee to unwind and spark new friendships.
10. Virtual Wellness and Fitness Events
Combine the benefits of networking with the perks of wellness by hosting virtual fitness sessions or events. Whether it is a yoga class, a meditation session, or a fitness challenge, these events allow attendees to get active, break a sweat, and break the ice at the same time. It is a refreshing way to bring people together while promoting health and well-being. Best of all, it can be a short 5-minute addition to your event, or the main attraction!
How It Works Online:
An instructor would lead the fitness and wellness activities on camera, while attendees can follow along at home. These activities can be yoga, meditation, or even fitness challenges. This format makes it easy for everyone to join, regardless of location, fostering a sense of inclusivity and community.
Why Is It a Good Idea:
Nowadays, fitness and wellness are integral to daily life. This idea taps into that growing trend, attracting a broad audience. The ease of participating from anywhere—without the need to travel to a gym—makes it more accessible. The invigorating and energizing nature of wellness activities also helps create a calm, feel-good atmosphere, conducive to cultivating new associations. If this is a small activity during a full-blown event, imagine being in a conference or virtual networking summit, kicking off the day with a quick yoga session before getting into discussions, or taking a revitalizing stretch break between keynotes. These short, fun exercises can be a great way to snap people out of their usual routine, giving them a mental reset and a burst of energy. They’ll come back to the event feeling recharged and ready to dive back in.
Make Your Virtual Networking Events Stand Out
These 10 creative virtual networking event ideas are designed to help you build a thriving and engaged community. By focusing on meaningful interactions and fun experiences, you can make sure that participants walk away with valuable new connections, excited to return for future events. Whether you're looking to foster new connections or build a community, these ideas have got you covered.
So, the next time you plan a virtual networking event, why not try one of these ideas? Break the mold, bring on the excitement, and watch as your attendees connect in ways they never thought possible.
And who knows? You might find that virtual networking events are your new favorite way to meet people and elevate the way you do work. And for individuals in the business world, these events might be the thing that adds those extra points to your professional standing.
Power Up the Potential of Virtual Networking with Remo
Ready to elevate your virtual events? Remo's virtual networking platform offers the tools you need to make your networking experiences dynamic and effective. Explore how Remo can help you create impactful connections at your next event. Book a demo today and see the difference for yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a virtual networking event?
Virtual events are about bringing people together. Like physical events, their main aim is to encourage interactions and relationship-building between participants.
- How to host a virtual networking event?
To host a virtual networking event, plan engaging activities like breakout sessions or Q&A with industry experts. Promote the event to attract participants and ensure you have a reliable virtual platform like Remo for smooth execution. For a detailed guide, check out our article on how to host a virtual networking event.
- How do I choose what virtual networking event idea to use?
Select a virtual networking approach based on your event's goals and audience preferences. Consider interactive formats like speed networking or roundtable discussions that align with your objectives. Ensure the chosen method fosters meaningful connections and suits the event's scale and complexity.
Aniqa Iqbal
Aniqa is a content writer at Remo, where she merges her love for storytelling from movies and TV shows with her passion for creating compelling content. With a knack for blending pop culture references and relatable narratives, Aniqa crafts content that informs and resonates deeply with readers. She aims to strike a chord with her audience, fostering genuine connections through words that inspire, engage, and entertain. When she's not writing, Aniqa can be found binge-watching her favorite shows, always on the lookout for the next story to tell.
