Networking Apps & Sites

Can some of the principles used in networking apps apply to higher education to create bespoke, personalised connections?

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Written by Kate Rushton

Updated on 07:03, Dec 02, 2016

Can higher education learn from some of the networking apps and websites that are out there?

Table Crowd

Table Crowd is a social dining platform which brings together like-minded professionals and entrepreneurs.

They "organise intimate sector-specific networking dinners, tailored to relevant business themes, where individuals can connect and engage entrepreneurs in a deep and meaningful manner to create future alliances, partnerships and new business opportunities.”

How does it work?

1. Find a Table

Browse our social networking dinners to find an industry, theme or speaker that interests you (or, arrange your own dinner at one of our 3,000 UK restaurants).

2. Dine with us

Enjoy a dining experience where you can connect and engage with high calibre like minded professionals and entrepreneurs over a delicious meal.

3. Build your network

Create partnerships, learn and discover new business opportunities. Networks are vital for success and there’s no better way to build them than over food!

Example listing

Ten Thousand Coffees

"Build your network, share your experiences, and exchange ideas - all through the power of a coffee chat! Whether you’re a student or an executive, an entrepreneur at a grassroots start up or an employee at a multinational corporation, Ten Thousand Coffees is the easiest way for you to connect with the right people for meaningful conversations, in-person or online."

How does it work?

1. Discover

Search by interests, industries, companies or regions to discover the right people you want to meet with.

2. Invite

Send and receive invitations with other members to plan a time to chat, in-person or online.

3. Connect

Meet at your office, favourite coffee shop or online to have meaningful conversations, one-on-one or as a group.

Specifically, please check all that apply:

An Individual

Tell us about your work experience:

I am the Community Guide for this challenge. I have studied at Birmingham, Nottingham and Leeds University in the UK and graduated with qualifications in Biochemistry, Toxicology, and Environmental Management. I have held a number of jobs including being a TEFL teacher and energy analyst.

What is a provocation or insight that might inspire others during this challenge?

Can higher education institutions learn from the way networking apps make connecting easier? Is there a way to make alumni networks, the local community, local businesses and other students more accessible to current and prospective higher education students? Can something like a networking app be used to tap into the different perspectives and experiences of people from all over the world

Written by

Kate Rushton