Matchmaking is the algorithmic recommendation of suitable networking partners on an event platform. Based on interests, roles, functions, and goals, participants receive concrete contact suggestions, often with the option to schedule meetings. This format adds a data-driven component to traditional networking.
Also known as: Networking recommendations, smart networking
Data basis: Profile, interests, role, optional behavior
Often combined with: 1:1 meeting booking, themed lounges
What is event matchmaking?
Traditional networking at conferences is based on chance, prior experience, and personal initiative. Matchmaking adds a data-driven layer to this analog mode: the platform knows the participants' profiles, interests, and goals—and actively suggests suitable contacts. Chance is transformed into a recommendation system.
Modern matchmaking is more than just Tinder for business: it uses structured fields (functions, industries, interests) and sometimes behavioral data from platform usage to make relevant encounters likely.
Use cases
- Classic business networking: "Who here would be strategically interesting for me?"
- Speaker Q&A sessions: Speakers offer 1:1 slots that are filled via matchmaking
- Investor meetings: Startups meet investors with matching industry interests
- Mentoring: Experienced practitioners meet newcomers based on specific topics
- Exhibitor appointments: Sponsors with high sponsorship tiers receive qualified pre-scheduled meetings
- Diversity: Algorithm actively suggests contacts from other disciplines
- Research collaborations: Scientific communities find common ground for joint projects
How do recommendation algorithms work?
- Profile-based: Matching interests, functions, industries
- Goal-based: What is the participant looking for? ("Investors," "mentees," "research partners")
- Complementary instead of identical: Sometimes opposites are more valuable than similarities
- Behavior-based: Which sessions were attended, which profiles viewed, which materials downloaded?
- Social signals: Who has similar contacts, who is frequently contacted
- Manual search: Filters across all participants as a supplement to the algorithm
- Curated recommendations: Contacts suggested by the organization (e.g., "Talk to a Mentor")
GDPR and privacy
Matchmaking requires data—and therefore consent:
- Networking profiles are opt-in and are never activated automatically
- Participants control which data is visible themselves (photo, position, contact details)
- Algorithmic recommendations must be explainable ("Why am I seeing this profile?")
- Contact requests must be rejectable without social repercussions
- Behavioral data may only be incorporated into the algorithm with transparent consent
Proper implementation in accordance with GDPR for events is a prerequisite—otherwise, matchmaking quickly becomes a reputational risk.
Best practices
- High profile completion rate is the most important lever—incorporate onboarding incentives
- Clear networking goals ask for these instead of just interests
- Limit suggestions to a few highly relevant ones—quantity harms acceptance
- Integrate 1:1 meeting booking —without a follow-up action, the recommendation fizzles out
- On-site component: Where are we meeting? Floor plan in the event app
- Reporting: How many contacts were actually made?
- Feedback loop: Participants rate suggestions, the algorithm learns
- Industry sensitivity: For pharma and healthcare events, ensure compliance-compliant separation of industry and healthcare professionals
Matchmaking in Converia
Converia offers an integrated matchmaking module: participants maintain their profile and interests, the algorithm suggests suitable contacts, and 1:1 meetings can be booked directly within the platform. Works equally well for in-person, online, and hybrid events.
Networking that succeeds measurably
With Converia Matchmaking, networking isn't left to chance; it’s driven by tailored recommendations that deliver high acceptance rates and measurable value.
- Event App – Communication & Journey
- Virtual Congress Platform – Formats & Trends
- Hybrid Event – Formats & Trends
Profile-based recommendations with 1:1 appointment booking – works in all participation modes.