Face-to-face relationships are essential for several reasons, not least because they provide valuable opportunities to build trust and strengthen ties. They also deepen the sense of shared history and make collaboration easier. A study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology found that people who met in person were more likely to stick with the commitment they made at the meeting than those who communicated online (even if they had agreed to it). So even if you’re an introvert or have anxiety, don’t let meeting in person be your excuse for staying behind your computer screen! Here are some ways to show how in-person meetings can benefit you and your business.
Clearer Communication
Although some people prefer to communicate via email, it’s not always the best way to get your points across or avoid misunderstandings. A study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology found that face-to-face meetings were more effective than telephone conversations at achieving what researchers called “clarity of communication.” You’ll be able to express yourself more clearly and get your point across without the risk of miscommunication, which is a plus for both you and your customers.
Fewer Interruptions
When you meet in person, you have the opportunity to be your authentic self. And because people are more likely to speak up in person and are more likely to listen carefully, you’ll get more done! You can freely express your emotions and personal preferences because they’re not judged or dismissed. People who work together in person are less likely to interrupt or bring up issues that could be resolved later by email, making collaboration more efficient.
Stronger Relationships
It’s easier to build relationships when you get to see the faces of people you’re dealing with. This is especially true when you’re meeting people for the first time, but it’s also true for more established relationships. Even if you see a person every day, it can be difficult to remember their name or face. According to research published in the Journal of Applied Psychology, face-to-face meetings are more likely to lead to stronger relationships. This is because people are more likely to engage in conversation and provide feedback when they see each other’s faces.
Builds Trust
People who meet in person are more likely to trust one another and exchange information. A study by University of Amsterdam researcher Mirjam Tuk and colleagues found that people were less likely to lie when they met face-to-face. The researchers also found that people who met in person were more likely to go along with the group decision than those who communicated online, even if they disagreed with it.
Meeting in person is the best way to build and maintain relationships. It builds trust and leads to better communication, which leads to more effective collaboration and a stronger team. As you can see, there are many benefits of face-to-face meetings. It’s essential to make appointments, especially at the beginning of your business, to organize everything and set up the right relationships.