The Power of Presence: Why In-Person Networking Still Matters

In a time when Zoom calls and Teams messages dominate our workdays, the idea of networking in person might feel almost old-fashioned. But after recently attending the ASTC (American Society of Trial Consultants) conference in New Orleans, I’m more convinced than ever that face-to-face connection is not only relevant, it’s essential. 

The conference brought together professionals from across the Trial Consulting field, each with their own perspectives, experiences, and specialties. Over a few packed days, I had the privilege of meeting new colleagues, learning from leaders in the space, and exchanging ideas that simply don’t translate the same way through a screen. Whether it was sharing a coffee between sessions or having an impromptu hallway conversation, these interactions reminded me that presence creates possibility. 

There’s a distinct energy in being physically surrounded by people who are passionate about what they do. You catch nuances in conversation, read the room more clearly, and build trust in a way that virtual meetings rarely allow. And especially in a field like ours, where psychology, strategy, and human behavior intersect, the value of these human moments is amplified. 

As someone who operates in a largely remote world, it was refreshing to step into a space where handshakes replaced emails and ideas flowed as naturally as conversation. It reignited my curiosity and reminded me that we’re all part of something larger than our inboxes. 

Networking isn’t just about making connections; it’s about creating meaningful ones. And sometimes, all it takes is showing up. 

If you’ve been debating whether to attend that next industry event or conference, here’s your sign: go. Be present. The relationships and insights you’ll walk away with are worth far more than the cost of a plane ticket. 

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💬 We’d love to hear from you — What’s been your most meaningful in-person networking experience lately? Or, how do you build a connection in a virtual world? Share your thoughts in the comments — let’s keep the conversation going! 👇

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