Virtual meetings, automated funnels, social selling via LinkedIn: anyone who works in the business world might think that face-to-face meetings have become less important.
But the exact opposite is the case. The more communication goes digital, the more the entrepreneur who takes the time to meet people physically, shake hands and have conversations at eye level stands out.
Successful Jetstream members report that the Decision-maker density at face-to-face events is higher than ever because many are limited to digital touchpoints. Those who master direct dialogue gain unparalleled levels of trust - and therefore orders.
The cardinal error: going into the field without a target group
Offline networking begins long before you enter the exhibition hall or club room: with a precise target group definition. If you don't know who you want to meet, you will get lost in the maze of stands or small talk rounds. A product for architects does not sell at a medical congress, no matter how rhetorically adept the salesperson is.
It is therefore crucial to find out where the desired customers congregate: Industry trade fairs, Golf tournaments, Exclusive business networks, Masterminds in Dubai.
That's the only place worth travelling to. If the venue is chosen correctly, the hunter-prey ratio drops drastically - and conversations lead straight to business.
Start a conversation first - then exchange business cards
"The supreme discipline for successful networking is to start a conversation first."
No contact without dialogue, no business without contact.
A clever introduction should therefore not be spontaneously improvised, but prepared. A short, humorous comment on the surroundings, a question about the industry or a compliment on the presentation - anything is better than standing silently at the buffet.
Once you have broken the ice, pull out your classic tool: the business card. Paper? Yes, absolutely.
In direct dialogue, it remains the best reminder signal. Abroad - especially in Arab countries - Instagram handles or WhatsApp numbers change hands more quickly, but in German-speaking countries the card ensures the follow-up channel.
Appearance and accents - why clothing works
Dress codes have not fallen out of time. Overdressed looks stiff, underdressed signals disinterest.
If you want to appear confident, orientate yourself on the framework, but set a deliberately chosen accent: coloured cufflinks, unusual shoes, a striking scarf.
These visual details are remembered when the name slips away. Visibility without ruckus - that is the benchmark.
The pitch: short, concise, rehearsed
Events are fast-paced; everyone wants to have a lot of conversations in a short space of time. If you need a minute to get to the point, you lose.
A crisp pitch follows the formula:
"I help [target group] to achieve [result] by providing [service]."
This pattern immediately anchors what is at stake and the dialogue partner decides whether there are common interfaces.
The right questions - and the right to move on quickly
Time is precious. That's why it's professional etiquette to end conversations when it becomes clear that there is no synergy.
The tone is crucial. If you signal in a friendly manner that you have another appointment, you will maintain respect and waste neither your own nor other people's resources.
Follow-up: The conclusion begins on the same evening
Exchanging contact details is just the ticket. Even more important is the follow-up - ideally within 24 hours.
A short email, a WhatsApp message or a LinkedIn Connect note reminds you of the conversation and keeps the emotional bridge warm.
Studies show that the majority of purchasing decisions are only between the fifth and twelfth follow-up falls. If you keep at it, you build commitment, especially if the customer does not feel the need today but has to act urgently tomorrow.
Online supplements, but does not replace
In a digitalised world, personal contact is a unique selling point.
At the same time, no one should the power of online visibility underestimate. A well-maintained LinkedIn presence with a clear brand identity creates advance trust before you meet. The digital shop window arouses curiosity, the physical meeting ignites the spark.
Online touchpoints generate leads; offline meetings accelerate trust and closure.
Combining both worlds is not a contradiction, but a best-of-both-worlds strategy.
Why personal presence gives you a head start
Events and networks where Jetstream is active show day after day: handshake beats click. People buy from people, not from logos. Body language, vocal nuances, spontaneous objections - all of this is conveyed much faster live than via chat or video.
Those who have the courage to leave the company enter a playing field with a higher density of decision-makers and less competition, because many competitors keep their distance. This is precisely where partnerships are formed that last for years - often initiated by a simple exchange over coffee.
Conclusion - it's worth going out
Offline networking is not dead; it has become more exclusive.
Those who take the stage know the rules: Choose your target group precisely, prepare the start of the conversation, hand over your business card, round off your appearance, perfect your pitch, ask clever questions, break off politely, follow up reliably.
This turns every trade fair, every dinner, every mastermind into a wave that you can surf.
Next step
Do you want to learn how to use face-to-face events, win business partners in minutes and systematically lead follow-ups to deals?
Then experience it live in the Jetstream Membership - four times a year in Dubaiflanked by daily networking.
