With technological advances in communication applications, some feel that face-to-face meetings are still most beneficial for certain situations within an organization. Online events and online sales training spark a great debate for many. Depending on whom you ask and what products or services they offer, here are a few of the pros and cons that I’ve heard:
Pros
- Cost savings can be anywhere from 50%-80% for a company that hosts virtual meetings. Employees who have to travel have the convenience of saving time and can easily communicate with team members by way of virtual conferencing.
- Increased productivity among team members. Employees have more time to provide valuable input by lessening time spent on coordinating logistics for a meeting. Finding meeting space, catering breakfast or lunch, and setting up audio/visual equipment are all eliminated.
Cons
- In a world of multi-tasking, some people have a shorter attention span than others. Some manager’s major concern is team members may not be fully engaged in the meeting and may miss vital information being shared.
- In a sales environment, face-to-face meetings are the lifeline to some organizations. Building rapport and confidence with customers is often a very tactile experience in sales.
Weigh in on this topic and tell us what some of your pros and cons are.
Jewel Johnson
Jayen Associates, LLC
Phone: 832-373-6533
Jayen Associates 