Music During Networking: What Works and What Gets in the Way
Networking is one of the main goals of many corporate events. Guests come to meet new people, build connections, and have meaningful conversations. Music can play a supporting role in this process - but only if it is chosen correctly.
Unfortunately, music at networking events is often either completely ignored or chosen without much thought. As a result, it can either help create a comfortable atmosphere or, conversely, make communication more difficult.
Here’s what usually works and what tends to get in the way.
What Works: Characteristics of Good Networking Music
Good background music during networking should have several important qualities:
- Moderate volume: The music should be audible but never so loud that guests have to raise their voices. The ideal level allows people to talk comfortably without straining.
- Pleasant and non-intrusive: The music should create a positive atmosphere without demanding attention. It should feel like pleasant background rather than the main focus.
- Medium energy: The tempo should be calm to medium. Very slow music can make the atmosphere feel heavy, while very fast or aggressive music can feel too stimulating for conversation.
- Familiar but not distracting: Well-known songs in softer arrangements often work well. However, extremely popular or emotionally charged songs can pull guests’ attention away from their conversations.
Live music (such as a solo pianist or small acoustic ensemble) often works particularly well for networking because it can be adjusted in real time depending on how loud the guests are talking.
What Gets in the Way: Common Mistakes
Some types of music and approaches can negatively affect networking:
- Too loud music: This is the most common mistake. When the volume is too high, guests quickly get tired of trying to talk over the music and either stop conversing or move to quieter areas.
- Music with strong vocals or lyrics: Songs with prominent lyrics (especially in the guests’ native language) tend to distract people from conversation. Guests may start listening to the words instead of talking to each other.
- Very slow or melancholic music: Such music can make the atmosphere feel heavy or even sad, which is rarely appropriate for networking.
- Abrupt changes in style or energy: If the music suddenly becomes much louder or changes genre dramatically, it can disrupt the flow of conversations.
- Completely silent spaces: While some people prefer no music at all, complete silence can sometimes make the atmosphere feel awkward, especially in large venues.
Practical Recommendations
If you are planning music for a networking event, consider the following:
- Prioritize volume control above all else. It is better to start quieter and gradually increase the volume if needed.
- Choose instrumental music or songs with soft vocals. Avoid tracks with strong, attention-grabbing lyrics.
- Keep the energy moderate. The music should support relaxed conversation rather than energize or calm people too much.
- Consider the size and acoustics of the venue. Larger spaces usually require slightly louder music, while smaller rooms need softer sound.
- If you hire live musicians, discuss the concept of “background music” with them in advance so they understand the priorities.
Final Thoughts
Music during networking events works best when it stays in the background and supports conversation rather than competing with it. The goal is not to entertain guests with music, but to create comfortable conditions for them to connect with each other.
When music is chosen with this purpose in mind, it can subtly improve the overall experience of the event. When it is chosen poorly, even good music can become an obstacle to meaningful interaction.
