By Lou Sokolovskiy, Opus Connect

In today’s business landscape, networking events are everywhere, sometimes literally in your living room via Zoom, and other times at bustling industry conferences. The debate that’s been gaining momentum since 2020 often centers on whether virtual gatherings can match the energy and impact of in-person meetings. The reality is simpler: if you have a strong business development strategy, meaning you have a clear message, a reliable process, and disciplined follow-up, then you can thrive in any setting. If you depend mostly on personal charm or the intangible “good vibes” that come from shaking someone’s hand, you might favor in-person opportunities. That preference, though, doesn’t negate the fact that the fundamentals ultimately decide your fate in either format.