The advancement of virtual meeting tools and the COVID-19 pandemic have sparked the debate between face-to-face and virtual meetings. There is no clear-cut winner on which choice is best, but instead, they both offer their share of advantages and disadvantages. The key focus is identifying the appropriate type of meeting for any particular given situation. In this blog, we will discuss why both forms of meetings can be beneficial and how to identify the right fit for your business.
Benefits of Face-To-Face Meetings
In many cases, face-to-face meetings are crucial in enhancing client relationships and taking them to the next level. Business meetings conducted in-person offer more sincere communication between clients and help obtain long-term loyalty and trust. This is especially true when it comes to meeting a client or potential customer for the very first time. Although virtual meeting tools offer a convenient means of communication, nothing will replace the genuine experience of meeting face-to-face.
Face-to-face meetings offer a variety of benefits for businesses. The following are the main advantages of hosting an in-person meeting:
- They are more flexible for collaboration, innovation, and building relationships
- 84% of people still prefer meeting in person
- Face-to-face interactions allow the conversation to flow more fluidly
- Body language can be read and interpreted in person
- Helps prevent miscommunication between parties
- Increases focus and attention
Benefits of Virtual Meetings
We have seen a huge rise in the popularity of virtual meetings within the last two years. Tools such as Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams have made meeting online more convenient and functional than ever before. Virtual meetings are perfect for quick checkups with clients or communication with clients who live far away. Most of these tools offer screen sharing so documents can be shared and discussed with a large group of people instantaneously. However, virtual meetings lack the relationship-building component that face-to-face meetings provide.
With that being said, virtual meetings still offer a large number of benefits. Here are some of the following benefits of virtual meetings:
- Lower expenses as you avoid all types of travel costs
- People can connect from anywhere in the world at anytime
- Offers the ability for short, concise discussions
- Very convenient as minimal scheduling is needed
- Collaborate in real-time with screen sharing
How Do The Two Compare?
There are valid reasons why a company would choose either face-to-face or virtual meetings. When possible, face-to-face meetings provide clients with the opportunity to get to know one another on a deeper level. Whether this is done at a business dinner or a simple meeting in the office, a relationship is built right from the get-go.
Virtual meetings are extremely convenient and a great option for clients in a distant location, but they lack the human touch that meeting in person provides. Still, with the right team and tools, virtual meetings can provide the same level of communication as face-to-face would.
Clear, Strong, and Consistent Communication at Poli Construction
When it comes to the discussion of a construction project, both face-to-face and virtual meetings are viable options. At Poli Construction, we have mastered the art of communication. There are few things more important than open communication in the construction process. No matter if you prefer to discuss the details of your project in person or online, we will ensure that clear, strong, and consistent communication is kept at every step of the process. For those looking for a trusted construction partner who can take care of projects of all sizes, please contact us today to set up a meeting.
