How to use a humanoid robot at a networking event
Written by ROBOTio Team · · 6 min read
Article summary
Humanoid robots serve as ice-breakers at networking events, providing a shared topic and easing introductions. They can guide connections, manage speed networking and support follow-up. Practical scenarios, preparation and considerations for organisers.
Humanoid robots work particularly well at networking events as ice-breakers: they give people a shared conversation topic, so the dreaded opening line becomes less awkward. They can also introduce participants to each other, manage timing at speed networking events, and help with follow-up after the event. However, they cannot replace a well-organised event. They work best when they have a clear role, appropriate positioning and an agreed scenario. ## Why networking needs an ice-breaker Most participants arrive wanting to meet new people. Yet they stand by the drinks and wait for someone to approach them. A robot lowers this barrier. It's something to talk about without needing to introduce yourselves. "Have you seen it?" is an easier opening than "What do you do?". The attention around the robot naturally gathers guests. People who might otherwise have missed each other stand in a semicircle, taking photos and chatting. The conversation then flows naturally. ## Four scenarios that make sense at a networking event ### 1. Welcome and first moment The robot stands at the entrance, greets guests and answers straightforward questions. It speaks the language in which the guest addresses it, which is practical at international meetings. You'll find more about how to develop the persona and responses in our article [robot speaking the guest's language](https://robotio.eu/blog/robot-mluvi-jazykem-hosta-vicejazycna-persona). ### 2. Introducing participants According to our description of the solution for [networking events](https://robotio.eu/robot-hire-by-event-type), the robot can connect people based on their industry, interests or goals. A participant tells the robot what they're looking for, and the robot directs them to relevant people. This scenario needs to be prepared in advance: you need to know what information about participants will be available and where it comes from. Without this, the robot will just say "try talking to that person over there". ### 3. Speed networking The robot coordinates rotations, keeps track of the time and maintains the energy in the room. The moderator can focus on content while the robot handles the rhythm. A sound signal for rotation works, but the robot adds that people actually notice it and no one misses the signal. ### 4. Open networking and gamification For more relaxed formats, interactive games and small activities that bring together people from different tables work well. For example, a joint task that requires two to three people who have never met before. The robot assigns the task, comments and draws in even the more reserved participants. ## Follow-up after the event Networking usually ends with people promising to get in touch, and then they don't. According to our approach, the robot can collect contacts and send participants a list of people they met after the event, including shared interests. It sounds simple, but it requires: - clear consent from participants to share their contact details (resolve this in advance with your legal team or data protection officer), - information in the invitation about what will happen to the data, - an agreed format and timeline for sending the list. Without these steps, it's better to skip contact collection and keep the robot in a pure ice-breaker role. ## What we know from practice about robots among guests Networking is specific, but the basics are the same as at other B2B events. A few examples from our projects: - **Business breakfast:** at the [OneCore Business Breakfast in Bratislava](https://robotio.eu/case-study/onecore-business-breakfast-microsoft-bratislava), the robot R.U.D.A. appeared on stage in a Microsoft environment as a co-host for a B2B audience. - **Full-day festival programme:** at [Forbes Next Big Thing 2026 in Brno](https://robotio.eu/case-study/forbes-next-big-thing-2026-brno), robots opened the main programme and remained among visitors throughout the day, which is exactly the format that works for networking. - **Conference:** at [T-Mobile T-Data & AI](https://robotio.eu/case-study/tmobile-t-data-ai-2026-bratislava-praha), three humanoids welcomed guests, introduced programme blocks and participated in a panel discussion about AI in Prague. None of these events were purely networking-focused, but they show that robots work well among people and on stage. For networking, the first part is the most important. ## Which robot to choose For networking, it's essential that the robot is clearly visible and doesn't take up half the room. Two models from our fleet are suitable: - **Unitree G1 (135 cm)** is compact, fits into tighter spaces and enables eye-level communication. You'll find the profile on the [Unitree G1 Basic](https://robotio.eu/unitree-g1-basic) page. - **Unitree H2 (180 cm)** is roughly human-sized and is clearly visible even in a full room. Both series are manufactured by [Unitree](https://robotio.eu/brands/unitree). An overview of all models is available on the [robot models](https://robotio.eu/models) page. We do not rent robots from other manufacturers, such as Tesla Optimus. As an alternative, we offer the G1 or H2 from our own fleet. ## What to prepare 1. **Event objective.** What should be the outcome: more introductions, specific connections, or mainly a good atmosphere? The scenario is chosen accordingly. 2. **The robot's role.** One main role is better than five supporting roles. 3. **Persona and responses.** These are approved in advance. Bear in mind that the language, tone and topics must match your audience. 4. **Space.** A level and stable surface, a power socket nearby and access for the operator and transport crates. For the ROBOrevue show, a space of at least 12 × 6 m is required; for other formats we'll determine this together. 5. **Schedule.** When the robot greets guests, when it runs activities and when it takes a break. ## Watch out for these points - **A robot is not a business card.** The robot helps get the conversation started, but the conversation must be led by people. Don't overload it with tasks. - **Photo queue.** A crowd quickly forms around the robot. The operator manages the queue and monitors a safe space. At larger events, there are two operators on duty throughout the event. Find more details about safety in our article on [humanoid robot safety among guests](https://robotio.eu/blog/bezpecnost-humanoidniho-robota-mezi-hosty-operatori). - **Noise.** In a busy room, the robot is hard to hear. Plan for a microphone or a quieter corner. - **Overpromising.** The robot won't ask an in-depth specialist question or manage a negotiation. Be honest about what it can do. ## Frequently asked questions ### Can the robot connect specific people on its own? Yes, it can guide participants based on interests and goals they tell it. However, it needs prepared content and agreed rules about what information it can use. ### How many operators does the robot have? Each robot has two operators throughout the event. The robot manages its own movement and balance; the operator directs the movement and gestures. ### Can the robot speak with international guests? The robot speaks the language in which the guest addresses it; the website supports 13 languages. The persona and responses are approved in advance. ### Is a robot suitable for a small gathering? Yes, if there's enough space and it has a clear role. The compact G1 fits even into tighter spaces. ## No-obligation enquiry Are you planning a networking event and want to know how a robot would fit in? Send us the date, location and objective of your event through our [rental enquiry form](https://robotio.eu/robot-rental). You'll receive a quote within 24 hours. If you're planning a conference instead, also check out our [robot for conferences](https://robotio.eu/robot-hire-by-event-type).Want to see a humanoid at your own event? Find out how to rent a humanoid robot with our own operators.
Category
tipy
Tags
- networking
- humanoid robot
- ice-breaker
- speed networking
- corporate events
- robot rental
About ROBOTio
ROBOTio helps companies rent, demonstrate and integrate humanoid robots: Unitree G1 and H2 for events, trade fairs, conferences and marketing campaigns — always with our own operators.