We live in a time where “being connected” is a part of life. As a leader of an Association, it is important to be connected. Connected to the board, to members, to stakeholders, and to the association executive (CEO or Executive Director).
The challenge today is how to stay connected and make meaningful connections that help you grow and strengthen your Association.
I have always believed that I am a more effective communicator in person. This thought has been confirmed this fall as I have been involved in many meetings and events that have taken me out of the office and into situations where I can connect with members, stakeholders, and Board members. You never really know who you may connect with at an event, so the more opportunities you create for yourself, the more chances you have of making meaningful connections.
In-person networking offers several unique benefits that digital interactions often can’t fully replicate. Here are some of the most impactful advantages:
- 1. Builds Stronger Relationships: Face-to-face interactions allow for deeper connections because body language, tone, and eye contact create trust and rapport. These subtle cues are hard to convey online.
- 2. Enhances Credibility and Trust: Meeting someone in person often feels more authentic. People tend to trust individuals they’ve met physically, which can lead to stronger professional partnerships.
- 3. Creates Spontaneous Opportunities: Conferences, events, and meetups often lead to unexpected conversations and introductions that wouldn’t happen in a structured virtual setting.
- 4. Improves Communication: In-person discussions reduce misunderstandings because you can clarify points immediately and read non-verbal signals.
- 5. Expands Your Network Faster: Physical events often gather diverse professionals in one place, making it easier to meet multiple contacts in a short time.
- 6. Leaves a Lasting Impression: Personal interactions are more memorable than emails or LinkedIn messages, helping you stand out in a crowded market.
- 7. Encourages Collaboration: Brainstorming and problem-solving tend to be more dynamic and creative when people are together in the same space.
Recently, I attended two separate events where I had the opportunity to connect in person with the President and Vice-President of a company I had not previously met. Their organization is a key partner within the Association Management Company (AMC) I work with, and these conversations were invaluable. They reinforced not only the importance of their company’s involvement in the association, but also the meaningful role their people can play—through committee participation and service on the Board of Directors. Their perspective and engagement are important to this AMC. This connection would not have happened in the same way without meeting in person.
At the other event I attended, one of my AMC clients is always looking for and recruiting Board members and needs public members. During this outing, I struck up a conversation with a person who recently retired and had a level of knowledge and experience that could be beneficial at the boardroom level. He had Board experience, was interested in giving back, and staying involved in interesting professions. Another example of the power of in-person meetings to build and strengthen connections.
The importance of face-to-face connections in a technological world
The pandemic changed the world in many ways. Associations are working hard to stay relevant and in touch with their members using social media (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and many more) to create communities, providing lots of chances to connect with the masses.
However, the importance of in-person connections can never be forgotten or underestimated. All the reasons listed above are a small sample of the things that happen once you are face to face with other people. Things happen, you see the changes, you meet people, and the projects move forward when you are out there networking with members, stakeholders, and industry leaders.
Get Out and Network!!