World Online Networking Day 2026

Try a 20-minute professional exchange

This is our suggested format for two people who have agreed to take part. You can use it online or adapt it for a small group.

1. Agree the topic first. Send a short invitation explaining what you would like to discuss and why the person’s experience is relevant. Make declining easy.
2. Set a clear time limit. Confirm the meeting length, time zone and joining method. Ask privately about any access requirements.
3. Prepare two specific questions. For example, ask what helped them learn a skill or how they approach a problem you both recognise. Avoid requesting confidential client or employer information.
4. Make it an exchange. Offer a relevant resource or explain something you have tried, while leaving room for the other person to speak.
5. Close with permission. Ask whether they would welcome a follow-up. Send any resource you promised rather than adding them to an unrelated mailing list.

A sample invitation

“Hello [name]. I read your explanation of [specific topic] and found [detail] useful. I am working on [brief context]. Would you be open to a 20-minute conversation about [question]? No problem if your schedule does not allow it.” Replace the bracketed details with something accurate and personal.

Send the invitation through a channel the person uses professionally. One thoughtful message is enough; silence is not consent to repeated contact.

If you are hosting a group

State the audience, purpose, length and whether the meeting is recorded. Give attendees a way to participate without appearing on camera or sharing personal contact details with everyone.

Agree how introductions and follow-ups will work. Do not publish an attendee list or distribute email addresses simply because people joined the session.