Tips for Effective Matchmaking

TEXT HIEN CAO

Business matchmaking is a powerful tool. Through matchmaking sessions, you can build connections and seek all kinds of opportunities and potential partnerships. If you’re new to the networking game, conversing with strangers about your business and goals can still be intimidating - no matter how outgoing you are. Here are tips to help your matchmaking sessions go smoothly: 

​Have a goal!

Set a clear goal for yourself prior to the event. Do some research and get information of other possible attendees. If possible, provide your preferences in detail to the host in order to be connected with your best matches. By knowing what you hope to accomplish ahead of time, you can stay focused on the day of the event!

Share your expertise

Both buyers and sellers want to associate with a person who knows what sort of value they add to the table. Focus on your areas of expertise and be confident when it comes to your abilities.

Listen and then ask the right questions

Make sure to be an attentive listener and pay attention to the person you are in conversation with. By showing interest and being interactive with each other, you both are more likely to get the information you need and ask thoughtful questions. 

Exchange business cards

It is always a good idea to prepare your business cards in advance. It is challenging to memorise every single important detail about all conversations that you have. Thus, take quick notes if you can and exchange your business cards to build the relationship after the event. 

Follow-up after the event

The main idea behind matchmaking and networking sessions is to connect with others and grow different contact bases. Following up after the event is a crucial step in this.

Now you're ready to join our matchmaking sessions at Dare to Learn 2019! 

You can see the different sessions in the schedule or read more about them here. 
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​Apply by filling this form!

THURSDAY

Talent Development (HRD)
Getting the kicks from making others in organizations learn or collaborate in a better way? Workplace learning professionals, we call for you! You are either already part of this crew or interested in engaging with them.
10:30 - 11:30 @Loft

Education in Finland
Education is what Finland is known and proud of. You want to hear more about the Finnish system or engage in discussion with those who have questions about it.
Suggested for: International participants
12:30 - 13:30 @Loft

Dare to HRD -Meetup
12:30 - 13:30 @Attic

Learning Solutions
Eager to boost learning in your organization or used to solving the problems of others? You are a solution provider or interested in hearing about the latest solutions suitable to you!
Suggested for: International participants
14:15 - 15:15 @Loft

Private <> Public
Breaking the barriers and prejudices while opening opportunities for collaboration between the public and private sectors. You are from either sector and wish to connect with people on the other side!
15:45 - 16:45 @Loft

FRIDAY

Higher Education Innovation Partners
Higher Education Institutions need fast development of solutions and sales responding to organizational and societal learning needs. This session is for you if you are an insider of higher education or eager to engage with one to discuss solutions benefiting both sides.
​10:30 - 11:30 @Loft

LearnTech
Enabling better learning with technology. Exploring possibilities of technology with fellow enthusiasts and future business partners. You are in LearnTech interested in meeting fellow experts or want to start exploring what the field has to offer.
12:30 - 13:30 @Loft

Futures of Learning
Engaging in higher, further, beyond -level ideas about learning in 2030 is what you do. You want to connect with others who think future and are comfortable discussing learning scifi.
14:15 - 15:15 @Loft

Designing Learning hosted by Nordic Rebels
People have started talking about Learning Design, but what does that even mean? What is going on here? Are there frameworks? You are interested in exploring one possible view of utilizing design and technology for immersive learning experiences in this session of discussion, critique and shared points of view.
15:45 - 16:45 @Loft