Why Upskilling Needs to Be the New Networking at Events

Think about the last event you attended. Did you spend most of your time nodding through small talk and hoping a new connection would magically lead to your next big opportunity?

Networking is great—but without the skills and insights to back it up, it’s empty conversation. And in a world where workplace loneliness is on the rise, events can’t just be about transactional handshakes and LinkedIn swaps, they need meaning. The professionals who thrive today aren’t just well-connected. They’re well-equipped. That’s why upskilling needs to be the new networking.

The upskilling wake-up call

Here’s the deal; life’s moving fast, and people want experiences that actually help them get ahead. Did you know that a total of 63% of Brits believe the skills required for their jobs will evolve significantly over the next five years. Yet, over half of employees think it’s their employer’s job to support their development. The message is clear: professionals want to grow, but they need the right opportunities.

Many people are already making that shift. In 2023, nearly half of UK adults actively participated in learning—the highest rate since at least 1996. Meanwhile, 41% of UK organisations used external conferences and events as part of their learning and development initiatives. Attendees are no longer content with only expanding their professional circles; they want real, career-changing growth.

When networking meets upskilling

The best professionals don’t just “meet people.” They bring value to every conversation. That happens when you combine networking with upskilling. Here’s how:

• Start with learning, then let the networking flow. Offer skill-based sessions that give attendees fresh takeaways to discuss—turning small talk into meaningful conversations.
  
• Create spaces for collaboration. Ditch the awkward mixers and dull presentations. Attendees will bond over shared experiences like hands-on workshops.
  
• Before the event, invite attendees to share their goals. Use this to curate agendas, mentorship opportunities, and tailored learning paths based on their career ambitions.
  
• Learning shouldn’t stop when the event ends. Provide post-event development plans, guided reflection exercises, or follow-up learning to inspire action.

By weaving upskilling into your event design, you’ll foster genuine connections and help attendees grow long after the event ends.

Generational perspectives on upskilling

Upskilling isn’t one-size-fits-all, what it means to one generation can be completely different for another. By understanding these generational perspectives, you can create experiences that resonate.

• Millennials: 91% prioritise career progression, seeking upskilling opportunities that lead to real career advancement.
  
• Gen X: As many feel their digital skills are underestimated, they value learning formats that introduce new technologies while respecting their expertise.
  
• Boomers: With many embracing “flextirement”, events that focus on coaching and leadership skills hold strong appeal.

Lead the upskilling revolution

At the start of 2024, a quarter of UK adults couldn’t name a single achievement they were proud of from the prior year. Events have the power to fill that void by creating transformational learning experiences. 

Networking alone doesn’t cut it anymore, it’s time to level up events. Make your next one a perfect blend of authentic networking and valuable upskilling, get in touch today.