Global Networking Live Returns: More Than 6000 New Connections In One Night

IE Global Alumni Relations hosted the second edition of Global Networking Live on the night of October 28, where 420 attendees came together to connect with fellow alumni based on their chosen professional sectors. 

This year, Global Networking Live set a new record with 6,000+ total connections and a greater global reach, engaging alumni from 61 unique countries. The event built on last year’s success– more than 4,000 connections from 39 countries– which pushed the event onto the annual calendar as a part of an IE commitment to unite as many people from the community across the world. 

"Some people would say online events are not as impactful, but the results prove that wrong," said Elizabeth Stallard, Alumni Integration and Engagement Director. "The registration numbers alone show the value of the platform and how people are engaged and excited to connect."

The online event began with a new edition, a half-hour "pre-event" featuring regional breakout rooms dedicated to fostering local connections.

This was purposefully designed for people currently located in a specific region or those considering relocating to a specific region, regardless of professional interests. 

"Global Networking Live also helps IE engage with hard-to-reach alumni who aren't geographically located nearby to an official Alumni Club," said Stallard. "This event allows them to tap into the benefits of the alumni network, which otherwise can be difficult to do."

Speed networking lasted more than an hour. Thanks to a fast-paced, one-on-one matching system, a new connection was generated every 4 minutes, allowing each attendee to make up to 20 new connections by the end of the night. This year, 6,735 connections were made. 

A virtually mediated event alleviates the pressures of having to manage their own time, allowing alumni to focus solely on building relationships. 

For alumni like Herman Cheung, a 2021 International MBA graduate, the event created a space for like-minded people. 

"Global Networking Live brought the best of online connection to life. It created space to meet new people and have serendipitous conversations driven by curiosity and genuine interest," said Cheung.