These unconventional networking apps are designed to help professionals connect with those who fall outside of their immediate circle. In recent years, technology has provided new platforms for professionals to connect with one another. Instead of simply meeting at a conference or event, employees can now use digital channels to foster meaningful connections.
One of the ways that new technology has changed the act of networking is by making it an activity that occurs outside of work hours. Mobile platforms enable professionals to network during their commute, happy hour or even on their vacation. Some of the apps designed for fostering connections outside of the office include travel-based business apps, high-rise networking platforms and in-flight networking apps.
Aside from helping employees make connections in their downtime, networking platforms have also evolved to help those who work in emerging fields. For example, there are unconventional networking apps designed to help freelancers find new work. There are also mobile platforms that help entrepreneurs can connect with those who are pursuing similar ventures.
19 Unconventional Networking Apps
From High-Rise Networking Platforms to Startup Networking Apps:
Katherine Pendrill — Oct 8, 2015 — Tech
19
Professional Networking Apps
LinkedIn's Connected App Strengthens Business Relationships
18
Startup Networking Apps
Lunchcruit Builds Professional Connections Through Sit-Down Meals
17
In-Flight Networking Apps
Virgin America's Here on Biz App Connects Travellers in the Sky
16
Travel Networking Apps
The 'Mesmo' App Helps Travelers Build Connections Based on Common Interests
15
Associate Insight Apps
The Refresh Networking App Helps You Find Common Ground with Contacts
14
Freelance Networking Platforms
This Service Helps Digital Artists Promote Their Services
13
Fitness-Focused Networking
Sweatworking is a Healthy Way to Make Business Connections
12
Business-Based Travel Apps
The 'Jambo' App Helps Business Travelers Connect While Out of Town
11
Bluetooth Networking Apps
Surf Labs' LiNK App Uses Beacon Technology for Networking
10
Medical Networking Apps
The 'Curofy' App Easily Facilitates Networking Among Medical Professionals
9
Coworker Messaging Apps
The Cotap Business Messaging App Connects Coworkers Without Friction
8
Exclusive Networking Apps
A Non-Dating Tinder Feature Can Only Be Accessed by Forbes' 30 Under 30
7
Digitized Business Cards
LinkedIn & Evernote are Bringing Business Cards into the 21st Century
6
Pet-Focused Networking Apps
Cats and Dogs Can Network too with the SmellMe App
5
High-Rise Networking Platforms
'Tenant King' Helps Neighbors Create Community-Based Networks
4
Multi-Office Networking Apps
The Biru-Tomo App Helps Connect Friends Within Office Buildings
3
Nomadic Networking Platforms
CoNomads Connects Digital Nomads Interested In Co-Living Arrangements
2
Underprivileged Networking Stunts
This Charity Marketing Stunt Involves a Mock Profile on LinkedIn
1
Professional Messaging Apps
Caliber is a Business App to Connect Colleagues and New Contacts
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Pop Culture Business Cards
Benedetto Papi and Edoardo Santamato Imagine Icons with Everyday Jobs
Interactive Light Business Cards
Adrian Tan's Card Plays Tricks on Your Eyes
Ring Sizer Business Cards
Jewelry Shop 'Marrying's' Ring Stick Sneakily Finds a Woman's Ring Size
Sea-Bound Coworking Spaces
Coboat Lets Digital Nomads Work While Traveling Around the World
Rated Freelance Apps
The 'Work Hard Anywhere' App Lets You Find a Space to Work While On the Go
Procrastination Penalty Platforms
This Goal Motivation Site Makes You Pay If You Miss Due Dates
Voice Messaging Apps
The ChitChat App Allows You to Send Recorded Audio Messages to Friends
Professional Networking Apps
LinkedIn's Connected App Strengthens Business Relationships
Standalone Job Search Apps
The LinkedIn Job Search App Focuses on Finding Employment Opportunities
Thumb-Unlocked ID Cards
The Safe ID Reveals Information Upon the Approval of Your Fingerprint
Messaging App Branding
A New Report Explains the Future of Social Media Engagement Strategy
Backpacker Bonding Apps
The Backpackr App Helps Solo Travelers Connect
Outdoor Co-Working Spaces
The TreeXOffice Breathes Fresh Air into More Traditional Workplaces
Empowering Networking Pages
The New Barbie LinkedIn Profile Encourages Female Entrepreneurs
Lookalike Language Campaigns
Britanico Sent People LinkedIn Requests from English-Speaking Clones
Spontaneous Travel Apps
The Booking Now App Provides a Personalized, Real-Time Experience
Outreach-Optimizing Stats
This Infographic Goes Over the Best Time to Post on Social Media
Versatile Video Messaging Apps
Skype Qik Offers Distinct Advantages Over Snapchat
Christmas Networking Campaigns
NSPCC's Christmas Campaign Helps Santa Recruit on LinkedIn
Location-Based Messaging Apps
FlashChat Lets Users Communicate Anonymously at SXSW 2015
Social Notification Bracelets
The Hicon Social Media Wearable Wristband Keeps You Connected
Early Riser Infographics
Funders and Founders' Graphic Highlights Execs That Wake Up Early
Anonymous Video-Sharing Apps
PeekInToo's Video Sharing App Glimpses into a Stranger's Life
Startup Networking Apps
Lunchcruit Builds Professional Connections Through Sit-Down Meals
Intriguing Pet Infographics
This Infographic by Klooff Reveals Interesting Factoids About Pets
Fashionable Self-Promotion Shoots
The 'My Resume' Photo Series Takes a Visual Approach to Branding
Chewy Business Card Alternatives
These Beef Jerky Business Cards Come From Company ‘Meat Car
Layover Activity Apps
This App Suggests Fun Activities Available During Airport Layovers
Solar Power Sharing Platforms
This New Service Allows Users to Share Solar Power with One Another
Personalized Telemedicine Platforms
The Sense.ly Virtual Nurse Provides Healthcare Remotely
Tourist Companion Apps
The 'Trippers Pal' App Helps Put Travelers in Touch with Locals
Handy Real Estate Apps
The RadPad Apartment Finder App is a Renter's Dream
Residential Social Networks
This Social Network for Buildings Brings Local Communities Online
Gender-Inclusive Dating Apps
The 'One Good Crush' App Accommodates All Gender Expressions
Movie-Based Dating Apps
This Dating App Matches Users Based on Their Netflix Viewing History
Venue Discovery Apps
The Rekky Recommendations App Helps You Find the Hottest Places From Friends
Democratic Activist Apps
Loomio Enables Crowdsourced Decision Making for Protests and Non-Profits
Crowdsourced Translation Services
This Online Platform Provides Translation, Copywriting and More
Simplified Pet Training Apps
Tractive's Pet-Remote Control Helps Owners Communicate with Dogs
Customizable OS Smartphones
Jolla's Open System Phone Can be Customized Inside & Out
Scheduling-Optimizing Apps
The Mynd App Helps You to Keep Track of Your Busy Schedule
Soccer Fan Chat Apps
The INPLAY Football Messenger App is Like WhatsApp For Soccer Fans
Verified Celebrity Dating Apps
Tinder Will Be Adding a Verified Icon to Help Celebrities Date
Personalized Recommendation Apps
This App Provides Smart Recommendations Based on Expert Knowledge
Retrospective Footwear Campaigns
Clarks' WhatsApp Marketing Campaign Shares Brand History
Female Telehealth Apps
The Maven App Connects Women with Specialists Through Smartphones
Travel Networking Apps
The 'Mesmo' App Helps Travelers Build Connections Based on Common Interests
Video Conversation Apps
This Creative New Startup Helps Video Conversations Suit Your Schedule
Associate Insight Apps
The Refresh Networking App Helps You Find Common Ground with Contacts
Medicinal Business Cards
Lanfranco & Cordova Made an Edible Business Card for Altitude Sickness
Supporting Living Support Systems
'You First Support Services' Empowers Adults with Disabilities
Junk-Selling Apps
The 'Tradr' App Allows Users to Easily Sell Junk and Handmade Goods
Messenger SIM Cards
WhatSim Lets You Connect to WhatsApp Without Fear of Roaming Charges
Branded Yoga Breaks
SXSW 2015 Goers Embrace Healthy Networking in Between Events
Reimagined Database Apps
The Airtable App Features a New and Intuitive Spreadsheet Interface
Photography-Based Travel Apps
The SMWH.RE Web App Shows Instagram Images of Places To Visit
Workplace Messaging Apps
The Memo App Serves as a Forum for Anonymous Workplace Chats
Music Discovery Apps
New Music App The Best Song Uses Tinder-Like Movements to Add Your Songs
Groundbreaking Eco-Towns
North West Bicester is a Government-Designated Eco-Town in the UK
Professional Traveller Guides
Hotels4U's Career Infographic Explains How to be a Digital Nomad
Personalized Travel Apps
Momondo is a Personalized iPad Travel App
Energy-Sharing Networks
The Gridmates Platform Allows Users to Donate Energy to Their Neighbors
Community-Building Food Trucks
Dining at This SXSW Kosher Food Truck Redefines Connectivity
Haunted Networking Campaigns
This Fake LinkedIn Profile Encourages Parents to Spend Time with Kids
Decentralized Social Networks
Synereo Will Use Peer-to-Peer Networking To Foster Interaction
Crowdfunding Writer Project Websites
Beacon is Kickstarter for Writers Working on Passion Projects
Bluetooth Networking Apps
Surf Labs' LiNK App Uses Beacon Technology for Networking
Medical Networking Apps
The 'Curofy' App Easily Facilitates Networking Among Medical Professionals
Dog Park Status Apps
The SocialDog App Gives You a Heads Up Before Visiting the Dog Park
Crowdsourced Meteorology Apps
This Smartphone Real-Time Weather Network Uses a Peer-to-Peer Model
Money-Making Travel Tips
Baltic Travel Company's Infographic is on Earning Money While Travelling
Object-Swapping Apps
Shufl is an Online Marketplace to Trade One Item for Another
Business Leadership Supports
Social Venture Network India Provides Peer-to-Peer Opportunities
Convenient Travel Apps
The TripIt App is Designed For the Apple Watch
Outsourced Messaging Apps
Miranda July's Somebody App Lets a Stranger Deliver Bad News for You
Coworker Messaging Apps
The Cotap Business Messaging App Connects Coworkers Without Friction
Travel-Based Charity Apps
This App Enables Travelers to Donate Part of Their Holiday Expenses
Layman Medical Apps
The First Mobile Aid App for Medical Help Lets the Average Person Deliver Aid
Significant Email Improvements
The Gmail for iOS Allows Replies to Emails from Notifications
Chat Compilation Books
Memeoirs Turns Your WhatsApp Chat History into a Hard Cover Book
Emergency Response Apps
The GoodSAM Application Alerts Nearby First Aid During a Sudden Accident
Simplistic Sharing Apps
The Viggo App Lets You Throw Content to Share With Everyone in the Area
Social Lockdown Apps
The Lockout App Prevents You from Sharing Drunkenly on Social Media
Project-Tracking Apps
This App Makes It Easier for Freelance Designers to Manage Multiple Projects
Interactive Exploration Apps
The Phigital App is the Perfect Companion for Adventuring
Neighborly Sharing Services
Peerby Connects Communities for Resource Borrowing
Crowdsourced Guidance Apps
The Crowdpilot App Provides Coaching for Social Scenarios
Creepy Networking Campaigns
This TV Marketing Stunt for 'Stalker' Scoped Out Profiles on LinkedIn
Trustworthy Social Sharing Apps
The Open Messaging Platform App Omlet Debuted at the SXSW 2014
Freelance Writer Studios
The Good Copy is a Collective for Writers Living in Melbourne
Catchy Airplane Safety Musicals
The Virgin America New Safety Video Will Get You Dancing
Local Socialization Apps
In Partnership with Austin Blogs, Qork is the Ultimate SXSW Guide
Adventure Tourism Apps
'Klook' is a New App for Booking Thrilling Travel Experiences in Asia
Complimentary Smartphone Services
Hyatt Regency Tsim Sha Tsui Provides Guests with a Free Phone
Online Art Mediums
Electronic Objects Will Showcase Beautiful Things and Reduce Internet Anxiety
Social Network Decor
Etsy's Craftsquatch Shop Creates Facebook, Twitter and Vine Cushions
Celebrity Dating Sites
This Tinder App Extension Lets Users Romantically Connect with Celebrities
Culinary Pairing Apps
The Tender Meal App is Like Tinder But for Meal Preferences
Social Call Center Alternatives
Hello.de is a Messaging-Based Digital Customer Service Solution
Lightning-Fast Messaging Apps
The Telegram Messenger App is Simple, Secure and Super Speedy
Spontaneous Travel Apps
Traffle Chooses Itineraries with a Single Shake
Cardless ATM Apps
The CommBank App Lets You Withdraw Money from ATMs Without a Card
Text-Based Customer Service Apps
This Indian Mobile Messaging Assistant Answers Customers' Queries
Lookalike Pet Adoption Apps
The PetMatch App Helps You Find Pets Based on Their Looks
Online Booking Platforms
This App Lets Customers Book Appointments Online with Small Businesses
Income-Balancing Apps
The 'Even' App is Designed for Users Who Have an Irregular Income
Freelance Translation Tools
This Program Helps Improve the Productivity of Human Translators
Shared Expertise Medical Apps
SharePractice Medical App Helps Doctors Advise the Best Treatments
Tourist Reservation Websites
Dimmi Gives Travelers Access to the Best Restaurants in Australia
Neighborly Shipping Services
This P2P Shipping Network App Lets Neighbors Transport Your Cargo
Boutique Social Memberships
NYC's Parlor Social Club Celebrates Fashion, Tech and Gourmet Cuisine
Light Social Apps
The Facebook Lite App is an Alternative for Low-End Androids
Multi-Office Networking Apps
The Biru-Tomo App Helps Connect Friends Within Office Buildings
Organizational Messaging Apps
The Snowball App Harmonizes Your Messaging Apps
Crowdsourced Freelancer Apps
'MyCrowd' Connects Freelance Workers with Companies in Need of Help
Custom Trip-Booking Sites
South Africa's Sideways Tours Offers a Bespoke Tour-Booking Platform
Underprivileged Networking Stunts
This Charity Marketing Stunt Involves a Mock Profile on LinkedIn
Mobile Medical Research Kits
Apple's ResearchKit Could Take Medical Research to the Next Level
Biometric Dating Apps
This Tinder Hands-Free App Makes Dating Decisions by Reading Heartbeats
Hourly Quote Calculators
BeeWits's Simple Rate Generator Tool is for Freelance Design Work
Professional Messaging Apps
Caliber is a Business App to Connect Colleagues and New Contacts
Health Record Platforms
The OurNotes Scheme Lets Patients Contribute to and Access Medical Records
Crowdfunding Startup Platforms
AngelList is a One-Stop Destination for Potential Investors
Cinematic Networking Campaigns
Taken 3's LinkedIn Marketing Stunt Promises Skill Endorsement
Speedy Messaging Apps
The Tap App Claims to Be the World's Fastest Messaging App
Refreshing Summer Slushies
The Arnold Palmer Coolatta is a Frozen Beverage for the Ages
Community Medical Alerts
The PulsePoint App Activates Trained Bystanders and Emergency Response