Q: Why Face-to-Face meetings?

A: The results of a study of Forbes study show that the majority of executives polled believe face-to-face meetings are still crucial for building stronger, more meaningful and profitable business relationships.

If a face-to-face meeting (e.g. during a B2B Matchmaking event) is essential for business success, and there are more people attending a conference or event then you could possibly meet in a day (or even a week) period, then why on earth would you risk squandering that time shuffling through small-talk with the wrong people?

Q: Why B2B Matchmaking events?

A: Because it works. At B2B matchmaking events people meet face-to-face in a very efficient way and at high speed in e.g. 30 minutes timeslots. A B2B Matchmaking event is a unique way to streamline networking, help participants create a personalized agenda, and help exhibitors reach their intended audience.

Q: What is the benefit?

A: A B2B Matchmaking event is a quick and easy way to meet potential customers and partners. Before the event all participants gets information on possible matches online and select their meeting partners themselves. During the event the you and your fellow participants meet and discuss collaborations.

Q: How does the unique matchmaking feature MyMatch work?

A: This feature provides you with a range of recommended attendees, exhibitors and events based on your and other participants profile data.

Q: The event I'm visiting offers only 15 minutes timeslots, do you have some hints on how to make the best use of my time?

A: Fifteen minutes are enough for both parties to make a decission if they match. Here are some tipps on how prepare the best:

1. Small talk (1-2 minutes)
   
   
2. A brief introduction of your company. (2 minutes)
   
   
3. Prepare 3-5 questions about your partners needs (5 minutes).
   
   Try to ask at least 3 questions.
   
   
4. Prepare 3 solutions on how you think you could help your potential clients (4 minutes).
   
   Use the information you see in the profile of your counterpart.
   
   
5. Agree on follow-up actions (2 minutes).
   
   What, when, follow-up meeting, folllow-up mail?
   
   
6. Take your time to reflect the meeting (1 minute).
   
   Write everything down, not only hard facts but also your feelings, your thoughts in 5 sentences.

Gerard van Honthorst: The Match-Maker, 1625

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matchmaking

"The concept of matchmaking is also used in the business world and known as B2B Matchmaking, Investor Matchmaking, Business Speed Dating or Brokerage Events. In contradiction to social networking solutions, real meetings between business people are in focus. Trade fair organisations e.g. find this concept an added value for their exhibitors because it gives them the opportunity of advanced planned meetings."