Are Marketing Events a Waste of Time? (Only If You Ignore This)

You attend an event, shake a few hands, collect some business cards… and then what? Does networking actually lead to real opportunities, or is it just another industry buzzword?

Then, at one marketing event, I met someone who changed my career. Not because they offered me a job on the spot, but because they introduced me to someone else. That introduction led to a collaboration, then another, and suddenly, I was part of a network that kept opening new doors.

That’s when I realized: networking isn’t about how many people you meet – it’s about meeting the right ones. But how do you make those connections count? And more importantly, how do you avoid wasting time on conversations that go nowhere?

Why Most People Fail at Networking?

It’s easy to assume that attending an event means you’re networking. You show up, shake some hands, exchange a few business cards, and go home feeling accomplished. But then… nothing happens. No new partnerships, no exciting opportunities, and most of those business cards end up forgotten in a drawer.

I’ve been there. I’d introduce myself, collect contacts, and expect things to magically fall into place. Spoiler: they didn’t. The reality? Most people fail at networking because they treat it like a numbers game rather than a relationship-building process.

Here’s what usually goes wrong:

• No clear purpose. If you don’t know why you’re networking, you won’t make the right connections.
• Awkward small talk. Generic conversations lead nowhere. “So, what do you do?” won’t make you memorable.
• Lack of follow-up. Meeting someone once isn’t enough. Without a proper follow-up, that connection fades fast.
• Focusing too much on yourself. People remember how you made them feel, not how impressive your pitch was.

How to Make Networking Work for You?

Walking into a conference filled with professionals can be overwhelming. Everyone seems to know exactly what they’re doing – while you’re still figuring out where the coffee station is.

But here’s the thing: networking isn’t about being the loudest or the most confident person in the room. It’s about being intentional.Here are a few things that helped me turn quick chats into real opportunities:

1. Set a Clear Goal

Before attending an event, ask yourself: Why am I here? Are you looking for new clients, potential collaborators, or just trying to learn? Having a specific goal helps you focus on the right conversations rather than just collecting random LinkedIn connections.

2. Have a Digital Business Card Ready

You never know when you’ll meet the right person, so make it easy for them to remember you. Instead of fumbling for a paper business card, a digital business card keeps your contact details, portfolio, and social links in one place.

3. Prepare How You Introduce Yourself

Nobody enjoys long, rehearsed elevator pitches. Instead, keep it natural.Try something like:

"I help brands create marketing strategies that actually connect with people, instead of just pushing ads. How do you approach marketing in your business?"

4. Listen More Than You Speak

One of the biggest mistakes I used to make? Talking too much. The best connections happen when you genuinely listen and find ways to add value to the conversation. People appreciate feeling heard, and that’s how relationships begin.

5. Follow Up – Seriously, Do It

The real value of networking comes after the event. If you meet someone interesting, don’t just add them on LinkedIn and forget about them. A quick follow-up can turn a casual chat into a real opportunity.

For example, let’s say you met a content strategist at a digital marketing event, and they mentioned they’re looking for guest contributors for their company’s blog. Instead of letting the conversation fade, follow up:

"Hey [Name], I really enjoyed our chat at [Event Name] about content marketing trends. You mentioned you’re looking for guest writers – I’d love to contribute! Let’s set up a time to discuss what topics might be a good fit."

Where to Find the Best Networking Opportunities in 2025

Now that you have a clear idea of how to make networking work for you, it's time to put those strategies into practice. The next step? Choosing the right events to attend. Luckily, Digital Marketing Events 2025 are packed with opportunities to help you grow your network and build meaningful connections.

Digital Dealer Conference 2025

The Digital Dealer Conference & Expo is a premier annual event that unites automotive dealers, OEMs, and industry experts for a 2.5-day experience focused on growth and connections within the automotive sector.

For Whom it Can Be Interesting?

Ideal for automotive professionals, dealers, OEMs, and auto retail solution providers seeking to enhance their knowledge and network.

Why to Visit It:

• Gain insights on marketing and advertising strategies to modernize your efforts and improve ROI.

• Learn sales strategies and operational techniques to optimize sales and improve efficiency.
• Enhance leadership skills and boost profitability with tools designed for dealer operations and leadership.

World AI Summit 2025

The World AI Summit in Amsterdam is a leading international event that brings together experts, innovators, and industry leaders to discuss the latest developments and future of artificial intelligence.

For Whom it Can Be Interesting?

Perfect for AI enthusiasts, tech professionals, researchers, and entrepreneurs eager to explore AI advancements and expand their network.

Why to Visit It:

• Explore AI’s impact on business, science, and society with over 40 engaging sessions.
• Discover cutting-edge AI products and services that are shaping the future of technology.
• Network with leading experts, startups, investors, and academia in the AI space.

Viva Technology 2025

Viva Technology, held annually in Paris, is Europe’s largest tech and startup event, bringing together innovators, investors, and professionals to showcase technological advancements and foster collaboration.

For Whom it Can Be Interesting?

Ideal for tech enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals eager to explore emerging technologies and connect with industry leaders.

Why to Visit It:

• Explore cutting-edge innovations from over 5000 startups and established companies across sectors like AI, VR, finance, and healthcare.
• Network with top industry players and engage with entrepreneurs, founders, and investors in various sectors.
• Discover opportunities for collaboration, with the chance to discuss business models and potential partnerships with tech leaders.

TechCrunch Disrupt 2025

TechCrunch Disrupt is a renowned annual tech conference that brings together startup founders, investors, and tech enthusiasts to explore emerging trends, witness startup competitions, and connect with key players in the tech ecosystem.

For Whom it Can Be Interesting?

Ideal for startup founders, investors, and tech enthusiasts looking to explore new trends, pitch ideas, and build valuable connections in the tech world.

Why to Visit It:

• Startup competitions where companies pitch for funding and media recognition.
• Access to industry leaders’ insights on trends and future directions in technology.
• Networking opportunities with fellow founders, investors, and professionals, with the chance to generate leads and expand visibility.

In the end, what truly makes an impact at digital marketing events is being genuine and focused on building real relationships. It's the little follow-ups, authentic conversations, and the willingness to offer value that truly make connections last.

Keep it simple, stay true to yourself, and the rest will fall into place.