We’re lazy – It’s too easy to email, instant message, and even call business associates, often just leaving voice messages. So easy that we‘re likely, in all our efficiency, to not consider, or even resist meeting face-to-face. Think back. No, you weren’t too busy – I say you weren’t prioritizing well.
We can get the transaction part of business done via impersonal means, but what about the relationship? Face to face meetings are the regular physicals of business communications and business relationships. They don’t make everything right, but they help to identify areas of concern before they reel out of control. They’re arenas where you can relate, communicate, and offer to do business collaboratively.
You look into the whites of somebody’s eyes. You observe their body language. Are you getting a confident straight-on look when you discuss contract renewal? Or maybe averted eyes and a tapping foot? If they’re unsettled or uneasy about something you will be able to tell. You can be brave and ask the hard questions. If you communicate by email, a fixable problem can grow bigger and bigger without your knowing, until it’s too late.
And if you do deal face to face (not all the time, which would be a time and money-waster, and be overbearing besides), you’ll certainly stand out in an impersonal world. Just try searching on face-to-face communications. Entrepreneur has a good list of pointers. Otherwise, it’s just advertisements for “face-to-face” audio and video conferencing. Stand up, stand out and show real interest and commitment to your business relationships – that way, everybody wins.
Great analogy: "Regular physicals". Loved it!
Posted by: Stan DeVaughn | March 9, 2006 6:17 PM | Permalink to Comment