AI May Transform Networking, But Not The Part That Matters Most

"A few weeks ago, someone asked me a question I did not expect: "Do you think networking will last in the AI age?" At the time I was delivering a talk on AI of all things to a national networking group. The room was filled with 40 to 50 professionals dressed in business casual. Pointedly, the average age of attendees was over 50, a critical distinction that factored into my answer. "Yes, but maybe not as we know it.""

"For many entrepreneurs, networking is also mission critical to business development. Shaking hands and chatting, leading to the exchange of business cards, print or digital, is how deals get done. As explains, "Networking with others professionally can help you identify new sales opportunities. This may be especially relevant for business-to-business (B2B) companies, as they rely on the patronage of other companies to increase profits.""

Artificial intelligence can help people better present authentic selves, which can increase trust and generate more business. Networking continues to drive economic results: 80% of professionals worldwide consider networking essential for career growth, and 70% were hired at a company where they already knew someone. For many entrepreneurs networking is mission-critical to business development. In-person interactions—shaking hands, chatting, and exchanging business cards—remain pathways to deals. Networking can identify new sales opportunities, especially for business-to-business companies that rely on the patronage of other companies to increase profits. Networking has migrated online through platforms like Meetup and LinkedIn, creating tensions between actual selves and online profiles.

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