Once upon a time, in-person meetings were the only way for people to communicate with one another, but now, easier methods of communication are available, from simple phone calls to Skype.

While technology may be more convenient than in-person meetings, it does involve an artificial barrier that can mean lower productivity. There are many benefits to prioritizing one-on-one meetings with employees including reading body language, better focus, better relationships and more.

The ability to read body language

Body language and facial expressions often tell more information than words alone. Body language gives us a chance to learn the nuances of someone’s personality and their thoughts on various topics. Body language can convey confidence, concern, friendliness or sincerity. That capability to read someone is a tremendous benefit you simply cannot get over the phone.

Better focus

With the age of technology came the age of distraction. In a recent study, scientists discovered people felt more compelled to check emails and multitask during virtual meetings, which affected their capacity to concentrate on the meeting itself. During one-on-one meetings, there is less of an urge to multitask for two reasons. First, people are more worried about getting caught not paying attention and the social consequences that come with getting caught. Second, one-on-one meetings are more engaging, which can eliminate the need to find distractions.

Better relationships

One-on-one meetings offer an opportunity to bond with another person before, during and after the meeting itself. This bonding experience encourages feelings of trust and empathy, which are crucial in any successful teamworking environment. While virtual meetings do have somewhat of a face-to-face element, the lack of physical presence does place a limit on the degree of connection that can be shared between participants.

Furthermore, the business world revolves around networking and professional associations, which can be strengthened more by in-person interactions.

More “off-the-record” information

Many people work in cubicles or an open-floor plan and can’t have private telephone conversations. This means when they talk on the phone, they are reluctant to give sensitive, yet important information, such as the state of team dynamics or work responsibilities that are being neglected.

In a one-on-one meeting, possibly out at lunch or in a nearby coffee shop, you’re more likely to hear more colorful details that can be key to understanding the various challenges your team faces.

New ideas

One-on-one meetings don’t just have to be held in an office or a conference room. They can also take place during a walk or at a restaurant. Research has shown that a foreign environment can stimulate creativity and strengthen memory. Who knows, your next one-on-one meeting at Starbucks could lead to a new innovation or solution to a long-standing problem.

At Action Group Staffing, we strive to help company leaders achieve their goals by providing them with high-quality service and talent solutions. If your company is currently in need of these solutions, please contact us today to arrange a consultation.