b2b Matchmaking Explained

Matchmaking is generally used in the context of the dating world, namely to describe how two searching individuals find the perfect partner. Business matchmaking is no different from that. The same approach is used to find the perfect 'business' partner. So, let's clarify what that exactly means.

Video: b2match Explained

What is b2b or Business Matchmaking?

First of all, let's clarify the terminology. As the title and introduction indicates, we normally refer to what we are doing as b2b or business matchmaking. But, there are different terms out there being used to describe the same concept, like:

• b2b networking
• Business speed dating
• Facilitated networking
• Or just networking/matchmaking

The most important misconception to clarify is that business matchmaking differs from networking. Even though both share similar goals, namely to expand a network, they have different approaches.

Networking

Casual networking normally takes place in an unstructured way, either during coffee breaks in between event sessions, or in dedicated networking areas.

Regular networking means to arises naturally in an unstructured manner in an inefficient, time consuming way. Maybe the person you meet is a valuable connect. Maybe not.

Business Matchmaking

Business matchmaking is the opposite of casual networking. It is efficient, structured, and optimizes the time of an event.

Explore b2b Matchmaking Participant Journey

Definition of Business Matchmaking

Business matchmaking is a method to identify and connect (match) companies and people with common business interests, complementary services, expertise, technologies or business strengths. The goal is to create cooperative connections and realize business opportunities that mutually benefit both parties.

It is the most efficient way to find, meet, and talk to new collaboration partners in short, one-to-one talks either onsite or online.

Participating people (businesses) have to state information about what it is they are searching for, or what they have to offer. b2b matchmaking is based on that information. The system can identify which needs are met by which offers, and then connect those people.

The more precise the collected information, the better the outcome of the business matchmaking.

When is Business Matchmaking Used?

Business matchmaking is commonly used for events where networking either is the main item on the agenda, or just a side part of it. Common examples are:

• Buyer/seller events
• Innovation partnering events
• Regional development events
• Startup/investor events
• Career fairs or job fairs
• Chamber of Commerce (import/export business)

Additionally, bigger occasions like business conferences, congresses, exhibitions, fairs, etc., use the benefits of business matchmaking as a more structured and efficient form of networking.

See what kind of events use the b2match all in one event management software.

How Does b2b Matchmaking Work?

Business matchmaking is best done with the support of a software tool. One that highly automates the process and easily integrates business matchmaking into the workflow of an event. Therefore, it is ideal when the tool also has all other necessary features to manage your in-person, virtual, or hybrid networking events.

If you break down how the event matchmaking process works, you end up with four steps:

1. Registration and profile set up
2. Browse and matching profiles
3. Prearrange and communicate
4. Meetings

b2match Features List

1. Registration and profile set up

b2b matchmaking starts when participants register online by filling out the event registration form.

Customized questions defined by the organizer and adapted to the topic of the event guide participants through the set-up of their individual profile.

However, networking events aren't only about the individual participant but what they have to offer or are seeking. Therefore a marketplace entry is created. It is a digital catalogue for participants to upload files, images and videos describing in detail what their business matchmaking needs are. These are the details that event participants want to know to be able to find their best business match. More information can be found in our b2match Marketplace video tutorial.

The participant profile and the marketplace entry are the cornerstone of business matchmaking.

2. Browse and matching profiles

Before the event even begins, participants can go to work.

They can identify interesting and promising contacts with whom they want to meet. The tool's smart search function allows participants a quick and easy identification of suitable (matching) profiles.

Basically, finding the b2b matchmaking needle in the haystack made easy.

3. Prearrange and communicate

Before the event begins, participants can prearrange meetings with each other. This saves valuable time during the event.

The system automatically assigns each meeting to a numbered table or informs the participants if it is a virtual meeting.

Individual configurations allow you to customize each single step of this third phase for the exact needs of your event. Configurations allow you to customize:

• Who can send and receive meeting requests with each other
• How meeting requests are approved/declined (or by whom)

4. Meetings

During the actual event, participants can enjoy their prearranged meetings. Ideally, this first meeting is the starting point for a collaboration.

The Role of the b2b Matchmaker

To harvest the benefits of business matchmaking, it is essential to do it the right way. You as an event organizer function as the b2b matchmaker. Inviting people with similar interests and needs to your event is essential. Creating the correct categorizing within the system is needed. Making sure the right people find each other is out of your hands. Unless you use the right b2b event management software.

b2match, an event networking platform that specializes in b2b matchmaking, helps event organizers create an event experience where connectivity is maximized.

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