2025: The Year of Networking Meets Smarter Marketing

Alright, let’s get something straight right from the start. Yes, I’m known for marketing — crafting campaigns, building brands, and driving digital wizardry. But here’s the kicker: at the core of everything I do is one simple goal — business growth. And nothing drives growth like good, old-fashioned human connection.

There’s so much to be excited about in 2025 across marketing, tech, and creative — and don’t worry, I’ll be sharing my thoughts along the way. But for now, let’s focus on the biggest shift in the business world: how we interact with people. Digital interaction is becoming easier, bigger, and more frequent, but that also means businesses are getting lost in the noise more than ever. In-person interaction cuts through that noise every time, and when it’s paired with smart strategies, it’s an absolute game changer.

That’s right. While everyone else is busy chasing algorithms, I’m here to tell you that the strongest force in business isn’t the latest AI tool or TikTok trend. It’s the handshake. The eye contact. The conversation that happens over a shared plate of oysters — like the time I closed a deal because someone remembered the story I told about my first business pitch over lunch. True story!

In 2025, I see a powerful shift happening. This is the year we bring back the value of networking in person. The businesses that embrace this will thrive, and the ones that pair it with smarter marketing will blow the competition out of the water. Let’s dive in.

Why Networking is Back (and Bigger Than Ever)

Post-COVID, we’ve all been leaning hard on the virtual. Zoom calls, LinkedIn DMs, and digital ads have kept us connected when we couldn’t meet face-to-face. But let’s be honest, something’s missing. You can’t replicate the magic of a real conversation through a screen. And the stats agree:

• 95% of professionals believe that face-to-face meetings are essential for building long-term relationships.
• Deals are 40% more likely to close after a face-to-face meeting.

In-person connections create trust, spark ideas, and drive real action. But here’s where the real magic happens: pairing those offline moments with the right digital marketing can multiply their impact.

The Offline-Online Power Play

I’ve always believed that offline and online aren’t opposing forces; they’re partners in crime. A great networking event builds connections, but what happens after the event? Or even before it?

Picture this: You’re at an event, and someone’s heard about you because they’ve seen your posts on LinkedIn, read your blog, or received a friendly pre-event email. You’re already on their radar. That’s the power of smart marketing.

And after the event? That’s where follow-up emails, retargeting ads, and tailored content keep you top of mind. It’s not just about showing up; it’s about showing up well-prepared and leaving a lasting impression.

My Tips and Tricks for Maximising In-Person Events with Digital Marketing

Let me share a few tried-and-tested strategies to help you make the most of your in-person events. This isn’t theory; this is what I’ve done for clients (and myself).

Before the Event

1. Warm Up Your Audience: Use email and social media to let people know you’ll be at the event. Share what you’re excited about or even offer to book one-on-one chats.
2. Run Local Ads: Target your audience with ads specifically focused on the event location.
3. Create Buzz: Share a quick video or story about what you’re most looking forward to. It adds a personal touch.

During the Event

1. Be Visible and Approachable: Live updates on your social media show your audience you’re there and engaged.
2. Offer Something Memorable: Whether it’s a resource or a casual invite to a follow-up chat, give attendees a reason to remember you.
3. Make Meaningful Introductions: Introduce people who could benefit from knowing each other. Trust me, they’ll remember you for it.

After the Event

1. Follow Up Fast: Send a quick thank-you message to people you met. Personalise it with a reference to your conversation.
2. Share Event Highlights: A quick LinkedIn post about your takeaways can keep the momentum going.
3. Keep the Door Open: Mention your next event or a future opportunity to connect.

Proof is in the Oysters: Why I Practise What I Preach

Everything I’ve just said? I live it. That’s why, at the end of last year, we launched The 225 — an exclusive networking series for B2B operators. Hundreds of people have walked away with new business relationships and fresh opportunities.

If you’d like to attend the next event on Thursday, 16th January 2025, from 2 PM to 5 PM at Pearl Diver Cocktails & Oysters in Melbourne, let me know. Just send me a direct message on LinkedIn, and I’ll personally ensure you get a guest spot — as long as availability remains.

So, what in-person events, meetings, or networking opportunities are you planning this year? How can you use marketing to support, enhance, and amplify those interactions?

As always, we’re here to help. We love working with businesses to grow, improve, and make every interaction count. If you’re ready to take your networking (and marketing) to the next level, just let us know how we can help.