Face-to-face meetings stimulate activity in companies by 36%, according to a study carried out by the hotel company Accor, which highlights the decisive impact of face-to-face meetings in the business environment. international affairs.
According to a study carried out by the company “in a context where digitalization has transformed ways of workingthis data reinforces the irreplaceable value of direct human connection in the commercial success. »
Face-to-face meetings are therefore the key element to achieve greater performance in companies.. The report, which collects the opinions of 9,000 professionals around the world, reveals that 85% of respondents believe that favoring face-to-face meetings will significantly increase their financial results.
The data also highlights that these meetings have an impact equivalent to three virtual meetingsconsolidating its effectiveness compared to digital alternatives.
Among the top benefits identified, 41% of respondents believe face-to-face interactions are more effective for key activities such as closing deals and sales. Furthermore, 35% consider that these meetings promote greater commitment from participants, while 33% highlight the difficulties that virtual reality poses for building strong personal relationships.
Business travel
The Accor study also highlights that the main reason for business travel remains to conclude contracts, with 34% of professionals placing this activity as a priority. Next come meetings with clients (31%) and contract negotiations (30%).
The preference for face-to-face contact is also predominant in critical activities such as presenting proposals to clients (68% compared to 17% who prefer virtual) or contract negotiations (70%). Even in areas where technology has advanced, such as construction inspections, 77% of professionals choose to meet in person.
Even if digital tools have established themselves as a practical and global option, the study concludes that the future will be hybrid. Businesses will need to combine the best of both worlds: the efficiency of digital and the human value of in-person meetings.
“Technology connects, but human interaction generates trust, corporate culture and tangible results. Businesses that prioritize face-to-face meetings, particularly for key negotiations and engagements, will be better placed to thrive in this changing environment,” explains Sophie Hulgard, hotel sales manager.
Competitive advantage
In an economic landscape where digital transformation is progressing at high speed, the results of the Accor study reinforce the role of physical meetings as a competitive advantage.
Beyond a tradition, these interactions are consolidated, according to experts “as an essential strategy for businesses seeking to maximize revenueconclude agreements and build relationships of trust in an increasingly complex market.
The Accor report indicates that “with the the power of human relationships At the heart of business success, in-person meetings remain a pillar of growth in a hybrid world.
