My Social Compass: Professional Events - Building Connection Beyond the Virtual Meeting

For many professionals, work relationships shifted dramatically after 2020. Virtual meetings became the norm, and while efficient, they often reduced opportunities for genuine connection. Trust, rapport, and meaningful insight are built most effectively in person, not on a screen.

As professionals return to in person lunches, dinners, and events, many feel out of practice. This guide offers practical support for navigating smaller, everyday professional gatherings with confidence and intention. Larger, executive-level events will be covered in future posts.

You do not need to apply everything here at once. Use what feels relevant and return to this guide when needed.

Beyond the Virtual Meeting

In person meetings allow for relationship building that virtual platforms cannot replicate. Casual conversation, shared experiences, and presence create space for trust and understanding to develop naturally.

The goal of meeting in person is not to deliver a full business pitch. It is to strengthen the relationship so future conversations, decisions, and collaborations are built on mutual respect and familiarity.

Setting the Intention

Before planning any professional gathering, consider your purpose.

Are you:

• Getting to know someone better?

• Re-establishing a relationship after time apart?

• Learning how they prefer to work and communicate?

• Creating space for future business discussions?

For early in person meetings, the primary objective should be connection. Thoughtful questions, active listening, and genuine interest matter more than talking points.

Hosting a Business Lunch

Before selecting a location, know your expense budget so you can plan comfortably. If appropriate, ask your guest if there is a local restaurant they enjoy. If they do not have a preference, consider what you already know about their tastes or ask what type of food they are in the mood for.

Business lunches are typically casual to semi-casual, and most people do not expect alcohol during the workday. Choose a location that allows for conversation and does not feel rushed or overly formal.

Arrive early and wait for your guest before being seated. Allow your guest to order first, and wait until everyone has been served before beginning the meal. These small gestures help establish a respectful and professional tone.

Lunch meetings are often shorter than dinners or events, so be mindful of time. It is appropriate to discuss business, but aim for balance. Thoughtful conversation that includes personal context builds credibility and trust in a way virtual meetings cannot.

After the meeting, a brief thank you email acknowledging their time and company helps reinforce the connection and keeps the conversation moving forward.

Hosting at a Sporting Event

If you are meeting at a sporting event, plan a clear meeting location outside the venue. You will likely have the tickets, and arriving prepared sets a calm tone. It also helps encourage guests to arrive on time.

Offer to grab drinks or food so your guest can stay seated and comfortable. Pay attention to their cues. Some guests enjoy conversation throughout the event, while others prefer to watch the game and talk during breaks.

If you are a sports enthusiast, remember that the focus is your guest, not the game. Keep alcohol consumption moderate, avoid oversharing, and arrange a ride home if needed.

From time to time, a client may ask for event tickets to attend with family or friends. While it can be appropriate for them to bring guests, it is important that you attend as well. These invitations are meant to build relationships, not create another transaction. Being present reinforces the purpose of meeting in person.

Hosting a Dinner

Meet your guest outside the restaurant or in the waiting area and avoid being seated before they arrive. Ask if they would like a drink and allow them to settle in comfortably.

If hosting multiple guests, waiting at the bar until everyone arrives can help the evening feel relaxed. Once seated, invite guests to choose appetizers if they wish.

When it comes to wine, it is appropriate for the host to select the bottle in order to stay within budget. Pairing the wine with the meals ordered is sufficient. This does not require expert knowledge. Most restaurants list menus and wine options online, and simple pairing guidance is widely available.

Allow guests to order dessert if they would like. Throughout the evening, remember that you are representing your organization. Keep conversation respectful, alcohol consumption moderate, and focus on your guests rather than yourself.

After the Event

As soon as the event concludes, take a few moments to note what you learned while details are fresh.

This may include:

• Personal information they shared

• Work priorities or upcoming needs

• Preferences or values they expressed

These details help future interactions feel thoughtful and personal.

Follow up with a brief thank you message expressing appreciation for their time and company. When appropriate, this is also the moment to suggest a follow up meeting or next step.

Quick Recap: Professional Events

Before the Event

• Know your budget and purpose

• Choose a setting that supports conversation

During the Event

• Focus on your guest, not the activity

• Balance business discussion with personal connection

• Remain professional and present

After the Event

• Make notes while details are fresh

• Send a brief thank-you email

• Follow up thoughtfully