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Execs have a new attitude about networking — and it’s killing famous power-lunching spots and golf courses

Networking spots have taken a new direction - think fitness studios and music festivals

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Maître d' Mario Wainer surveys the lunchtime scene at Le Cirque, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in March. Photo: Sarah Jacobs

By Madeline Stone

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America’s business leaders are rethinking how they network.

Gone are the days when execs both young and more veteran had the time to spend hours at a boozy lunch or on the golf course. Taking its place are a whole new set of networking activities — think “sweatworking” on a run or at a SoulCycle class, or going on a cultural retreat with business associates. 

Leading the charge is a new generation of business leaders who value efficiency and multi-tasking more than ever before. Rather than devote a large chunk of time to a formal activity they wouldn’t necessarily enjoy otherwise, many execs are seeing the value in combining their hobbies with their business. 

“I have found one of the most interesting ones has been music festivals. Several very compelling things have come out of Bonnaroo, Outside Lands, and Trans-Pecos for us over the past few years,” Amar Lalvani, CEO of hotel group Standard International, told Business Insider. “It’s a real opportunity where executives are way out of their element, let their hair down, and have the time and space to have unexpected conversations about shared interests that lead to ideas and initiatives.”

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“[It’s] consistent with the almost total blending of work and play for most executives these days.”

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