In the digital age, it’s easy to forget the importance of face-to-face networking. With social media and online dating, it seems like we can meet new people without ever having to leave our homes.
But is this really the best way to connect with others?
Studies show that meeting people in person is still the best way to make connections, build relationships, and find business opportunities.
In this blog post, we will discuss the various networking statistics, and why you should make an effort to meet people in person!
Why Network?
Have you ever stopped to think about how you got your current job? Chances are, it had something to do with networking. In today’s competitive job market, it’s not enough to simply submit a resume and hope for the best.
Increasingly, employers are looking for candidates who come recommended by someone they know and trust. That’s where networking comes in. By getting connected with people in your field, you can create a network of contacts that may eventually lead to your dream job. In fact, nearly 85% of job positions are filled because of professional networking.
And it’s not just jobs that can be found through networking. Business partnerships and client relationships are also often formed through personal connections.
#1. In-Person Networking Statistics

It is estimated that 70% of jobs are never posted on job boards and that 80% of positions are filled through recommendations & connections. Nearly 100% believe that face-to-face contacts lead to stronger long-term relationships, and 41% desire to network more frequently.
COVID has proved difficult for anyone who enjoys face-to-face networking. However, face-to-face interactions were a vital part of networking before the pandemic.
Networking in person has many advantages over networking online. The main advantages were:
Source- Forbes
In 2020, over 26,000 co-working spaces existed around the globe.
70% of millennials no longer consider that going into the office is necessary—a remark backed by networking figures from 2021. In fact, up to 83% of employees now work remotely, at least some of the time. This explains why companies like WeWork are producing billions in sales.
#2. Business Networking Statistics
Networking isn’t just for people looking for work; it’s also a good way for entrepreneurs to build new relationships or attract new customers.
The following are a few of the most intriguing business networking statistics:

Source- LinkedIn, AudienceProject
#3. Virtual Networking Statistics
Online networking has grown in popularity in recent years and will remain so in 2022 as one of the primary means of meeting new people.

Look at the numbers, shall we? Let’s see:
#4. Career Networking Statistics
It’s no secret that who you know can be just as important as what you know when it comes to finding a job. In today’s competitive job market, employers are often inundated with applications from qualified candidates.
So, how do they choose who to interview?
One key factor is whether the candidate has a connection to someone at the company. A referral from a current employee carries a lot of weight and it’s one of the most common ways that people find new jobs.
Networking can also be helpful for getting promoted or landing a raise. If your boss knows that you’re friendly and well-connected, they’re more likely to consider you for new opportunities.
So, even if you’re the most qualified person for the job, it pays to network!

These numbers are self-evident:
Why Face To Face Networking Important?
Here are some of the main reasons:
1. The personal connection:
In this day and age, networking has become increasingly important, especially for business purposes. With the advent of the internet, it’s never been easier to connect with people from all over the world. However, there is something to be said for face-to-face networking.
When you meet someone in person, you have the opportunity to form a personal connection. You can shake their hand, look them in the eye, and get a sense of who they are as a person. This is much harder to do online. In addition, meeting in person allows you to more easily express yourself and your needs.
You can make sure that the other person understands what you’re saying, and vice versa. For these reasons, face-to-face networking will always be important, even in an increasingly digital world.
2. Exchanging information:
Business cards and other items exchanged during face-to-face networking play an important role in creating lasting impressions on business contacts. This process allows for the exchange of a great deal of information, which can be very helpful in boosting one’s business.
When exchanging information, it is important to be friendly and professional. This will help to create a positive impression and build strong relationships with business contacts.
Face-to-face networking is an important part of building a successful business, and exchanging information is a crucial step in this process.
3. Possibility of building more contacts:
Face-to-face networking meetings are a fantastic way to make new business contacts and expand your professional network. By meeting with people in your field, you have the opportunity to learn about new trends and developments, as well as gain valuable insights into the industry.
In addition, meeting with potential clients and customers in person can help you build trust and rapport, which can lead to more business opportunities down the road.
While there may be some initial awkwardness when meeting new people, the rewards of face-to-face networking far outweigh the risks.
4. Follow-up meetings:
Networking can also be a challenge. If you don’t keep in touch with your contacts, it can be difficult to maintain those relationships. Face-to-face networking is a great way to overcome this challenge.
When you meet someone in person, it’s easier to make a connection and exchange contact information. You can also follow up with your contact after the meeting to stay in touch.
By keeping your face-to-face networking connections strong, you’ll be able to build long-lasting relationships that can benefit both you and your contacts.
Wrap Up
Online networking may seem to be taking the place of face-to-face networking due to the increasing number of people who work from home. There is no substitute for face-to-face communication, and technology isn’t displacing it. New clients are most likely to come to you in person, according to networking stats.
However, the future of networking appears to be bright. The rise of co-working facilities around the world, along with Google Translate’s advancements, suggests that we may soon be able to communicate almost anywhere.