The Magnificent Value of Meeting In-Person

Published February 26, 2025. Updated February 27, 2025.

Overview

Why be in person when virtual is so convenient? Start by thinking of the senses: touch, taste, sound, smell, sight. Only sight is accessed by a text or email. Only a small fraction of full communication is transmitted with virtual technology, especially on a first meeting.

Despite the impression that younger generations want to conduct both their business and personal lives remotely and virtually, that is in large part a misperception. What we have been hearing is that they do want to meet in person and feel they get a much better sense of who a person is, what they are interested in, their work style, and their expectations. This understanding comes sooner in person.

Many people, especially post-pandemic, have lost a sense of ease being in person and often feel awkward with people they do not know well or are meeting for the first time. This discomfort is often a matter of being outside one’s comfort zone rather than a true preference, indicating a need for mentoring or coaching to remove fear.

Even online dating has been losing interest, as evaluating choices and the truth of what a new person writes or says is challenging. To truly get to know someone and share experiences beyond storytelling, being physically close is invaluable.

Most ambitious people, including many introverts, recognize that greater roles of responsibility and promotions often require in-person interaction, at least occasionally, with teams they aim to lead toward bigger achievements. The value of in-person communication can be "magnificent" and liberating for those who felt a loss of authenticity and connection during and after the pandemic.

Key Considerations

• Difference in energy level and motivation
• More visible non-verbal communication
• Building relationships faster and deeper
• Combating loneliness when isolation is not by choice

Call to Action

If you or your colleagues want support in developing comfort outside your comfort zone or succeeding in hard conversations, reach out for a short call to clarify the problem and explore solutions for greater confidence.

Contact: pwhaserot@pdcounsel.com | LinkedIn

About the Author

Phyllis Weiss Haserot, known as "The Cross-Generational Voice" and President of Practice Development Counsel, is a pattern-spotter and builder of relationships across generational and other differences. She facilitates meaningful conversations that resolve conflicts and unite people to retain valuable organizational talent and stability.

Website: youcantgoogleit.com