Some of the best connections I’ve made didn’t happen in meeting rooms or conferences. They happened by accident — at airports, hotel lobbies, and even while exploring a new city.
When we travel, especially for work, we’re surrounded by people we might never meet otherwise. And if we’re just a little intentional, the opportunities are incredible:
- Airport lounges aren’t just about free coffee. They’re full of people moving fast, building things, making decisions. A quick conversation can turn into a real connection.
- Local events can open unexpected doors. A quick LinkedIn or Meetup search can uncover dinners, talks, and meetups where real conversations (not just handshakes) happen.
- Hotels are evolving beyond just places to stay. Many now offer coworking spaces and host networking events or social hours, making it easier than ever for travelers to connect with like-minded professionals.
- Sharing your journey builds your personal brand. A simple post about where you are and why you’re there can lead to messages like: “Hey, I’m in the same city, let’s meet!”
- The best connections feel natural. Sometimes it’s not a “networking event”, it’s sharing a table, joining a local class, or striking up a conversation on a hike. In 2025, networking doesn’t just happen inside offices; it happens wherever we’re open to it.
Have you ever made a surprising connection while traveling? Would love to hear your story.
