Do you feel like in-person networking is dead? Why or Why not? There are so many digital options I've been having a tough time swinging back towards face-to-face. Should I reconsider?

I definitely do not think in-person networking is dead. I’ve attended more than a dozen events since last fall and you cannot replace the spontaneity or serendipity that comes with them. A 1:1 conversion can quickly turn into a multi-person one and going to a conference provides you with the opportunity to make new connections that are simply not possible when using digital… you have to be in person. 

Using digital, even if it is multi-person doesn’t provide you with the opportunity to have the sidebar conversations you might have when you see someone ask a question in a session then connect with them afterwards. 

I have and will continue to use the digital options and it’s been my experience that once you meet someone in person, it’s easier to have those conversations over a Teams or Zoom call, but not as a replacement. 

I would also add that so many people in those multi-party calls tend to opt out of using video, which simply means you don’t have engagement. If you’re in person at a networking event it’s tough divide your engagement. You could, but then why attend?

I generally find that in-person networking is for meeting and connecting, and digital is for maintaining. A virtual-only working relationship can work, but only under certain conditions. I have managed teams that I have never met, and who lived and worked 10-12 hour time zone shifts. This works when there are clear quantified shared objectives and very clear process definitions that allow for good collaboration, even partnership, without ever meeting face-to-face. But that is transactional process work. For networking, you have to shake a hand and get to know someone up close. But I suspect this is changing as the virtual world becomes more immersive and generations used to online only begin to dominate the work force.

Digital networking is definitely useful and makes better use of your time, however, there is no substitute for some in-person networking to really connect with people.

My advice, use your time wisely and make all networking valuable.

Yes, you should reconsider and in-person networking is absolutely NOT dead. In-person networking is still very highly preferred and it's the organic nature of conversations and gatherings that truly yields value.

No, I would say that face-to-face networking is even more important. Digital options are good for some surface connections, however, I have found that they are more challenging because of the ability for participants to "multi-task". Face-to-face is a forcing function that requires more focus and a greater effort to network. I would encourage you to reconsider and put more focus on in-person opportunities.