The Future of Event Networking: How Shared Accommodations Strengthen Connections

In the world of conferences, festivals, retreats, workshops, and trade shows, networking has always been the heartbeat of a successful event. However, traditional networking sessions—structured, time-limited interactions—often fall short of fostering deep, lasting connections. As event organizers strive to improve attendee engagement and satisfaction, a new, solution is emerging: shared accommodations.

Why Networking Needs a Refresh

The traditional event networking model is often rigid, with designated meet-and-greet sessions, business card exchanges,  scheduled panel discussions, and rushed mixers. While these provide opportunities for initial interactions, they rarely allow for organic relationship-building. Attendees often leave events with surface-level connections but no meaningful professional relationships.

With shared accommodations, the networking dynamic shifts. Instead of brief introductions in formal environments attendees share living spaces where genuine connections can develop naturally. Whether it’s a group staying in a shared house or co-living spaces designed for event participants, this setup encourages conversations beyond structured sessions.

The Power of Shared Spaces for Stronger Connections

1. More Time for Organic Conversations

In a traditional event setting, attendees get a few minutes to chat during coffee breaks or receptions. In contrast, shared accommodations provide ample opportunities for deeper discussions, whether over breakfast, during downtime, in the evening after an event, or heading together in the Uber whilst stuck in a traffic jam. This leads to longer conversations, and a stronger basis for professional relationships and collaboration opportunities.

2. Breaking the Ice Before the Event Begins

Pre-event anxiety is real—many attendees arrive at conferences knowing no one. Shared accommodations can help attendees form connections before the event even starts, making them feel more comfortable when they step into the conference hall. When attendees can connect via chat, then in person before the event, they arrive more confident. The result? A more engaged and interactive event experience.

3. Encouraging Cross-Industry Collaboration

Many events attract professionals from various sectors. When staying together, attendees from different industries are more likely to engage in cross-disciplinary conversations, leading to innovative ideas and unexpected partnerships. Alternatively, curated shared accommodations of people interested in the same track allow event organizers to deliver targeted connections, organically. 

How Shared Accommodations Are Driving Networking Success

Tech Conference Retreats: Some forward-thinking tech conferences have introduced co-living spaces for attendees, resulting in stronger professional bonds and increased post-event collaboration. For example, industry leaders have reported that participants who shared accommodations were more likely to continue working together post-event.

Festival Community Living: Music and arts festivals have long embraced communal camping and housing experiences, and now business events are adopting similar models. By staying together, festival-goers form friendships that extend beyond the event, ensuring repeat attendance year after year.

Corporate Summits & Retreats: Large organizations hosting summits have turned to shared housing solutions to create a sense of team unity. Employees who stay together during conferences report higher satisfaction and stronger workplace relationships. Corporations can use these to break down barriers, whilst still maintaining individual privacy with private rooms and bathrooms.

How Event Organizers Can Implement Shared Accommodations

1. Partner with Shared Housing Platforms

Platforms like Bubbl offer event organizers a seamless way to connect attendees with trusted, community-driven accommodations. They offer the opportunity to promote inclusion because the attendees are by default in ‘a Bubbl’ before they even arrive, often chatting to plan in the app. By integrating these solutions into event planning, organizers can enhance networking experiences without adding logistical complexity.

2. Offer Attendee Matchmaking for Stays

Curate housing  that matches attendees based on industry, interests, or goals to ensure that shared accommodations enhance the right networking opportunities that your attendees are seeking. Whether it’s executives looking for high-level connections or young professionals seeking mentorship, strategic pairings can maximize value. This in turn delivers ROI to your attendees and fosters loyalty. 

3. Incorporate Networking-Friendly Spaces

Accommodations should offer communal areas designed for networking—lounges, shared kitchens, or co-working spaces—to encourage ongoing discussions. Simple additions like structured icebreakers, community breakfasts, pre-dinner drinks, or casual fireside chats can make a big difference.

4. Devise a post-event agenda with shared accommodation at the heart of it-

The rise of ‘Bleisure’ has meant that events can differentiate on the basis of what happens before or after. Make your event stand out with enticing leisure options. 

The Future of Event Networking Starts with How You Stay

The shift toward shared accommodations represents the next evolution in event networking. By embracing this approach, event organizers can offer a richer, more engaging experience that fosters long-term professional relationships. As the events industry continues to evolve, integrating community-driven housing solutions like Bubbl could be the key to unlocking the full potential of networking.

Interested in exploring how shared accommodations can transform your event? Learn more here