For 12 years, Skift Global Forum has been where the travel industry meets itself — and where big ideas turn into business.
Known for its energy, warmth, and a room full of decision-makers, Skift Global Forum has helped thousands of leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors build relationships that shape what’s next in travel.
At Skift, networking is baked into the experience. And with the right approach, you can make every conversation count before, during, and after the event.
Here is how to plan your networking journey at Skift Global Forum 2025.
Treat networking as part of your business development strategy:
These small, focused conversations on key industry topics bring together people who share your interests. Because seats are limited, they’re an excellent way to have meaningful dialogue in a more personal setting.
Closer to the event, you’ll gain access to the Skift Global Forum app. This lets you view the full attendee list, identify key contacts, and schedule meetings before you even set foot in New York. Executives who use the app well often walk in with a calendar of purposeful meetings.
LinkedIn, bio, headshot. Make sure they reflect who you are now, not five years ago. People will look you up before they meet you.
A quick LinkedIn post announcing your attendance helps surface new opportunities. Former colleagues, industry peers, or potential partners may reach out to connect at the event.
Define what a successful Forum looks like for you:
Clarity helps you prioritize when things get busy.
Block time for the sessions you care about, roundtables, receptions, and pre-booked meetings. Let your team at home know you’ll be fully engaged during those windows.
Skift Global Forum has an energy that makes starting conversations natural, but thoughtful execution gets results.
Mornings are calmer, and people are more open to unhurried conversations before the day kicks off.
If you’ve secured a seat, contribute thoughtfully to the discussion and connect with participants afterward. These settings are ideal for building substantive relationships.
These short pauses are perfect for circling back to someone you met earlier. Or simply walk up to someone new and ask what they thought of the last session. Random questions like “What surprised you most about that panel?” or “Did you agree with what he/she said about loyalty programs?” often spark real dialogue.
Both the opening and the closing reception on the second day offer more casual settings to deepen connections you’ve made or meet new contacts.
Whether it’s a card, QR code, or digital business card, make it easy for others to follow up. Better yet, save your contact QR code (from LinkedIn, your phone contact, or a digital business card app) as your lock screen or in your wallet app. It’s a one-tap move that makes exchanging details quick and seamless.
We’re on site, approachable, and happy to help you navigate the room. Need help finding someone or making an introduction? Just ask.
What happens after the Forum also determines the long-term value of your connections:
Send a short, specific email or message reminding them of your conversation and suggesting a next step if appropriate.
Ditch the generic “let’s stay in touch.” Reference what you discussed and offer something of value — a thought, a stat, or even just an acknowledgment of their insight.
If you didn’t meet someone on your list, it’s not too late. Reach out while the event is still fresh in everyone’s mind.
Keep an eye on post-event materials and session recordings to follow up on topics you care about, and stay visible in the Skift community between events.
Over 12 editions, Skift Global Forum has become the travel industry’s most important stage and a proven place for serious business. Deals have been done here. Partnerships have started here. Ideas have been launched here.
By preparing with intention, engaging fully in the event’s built-in networking opportunities, and following up with care, you can build relationships that move your business forward.
Seats for roundtables and the event itself are limited. Register early to secure your place and start planning the conversations that could define your next big opportunity.