Show up, stand out: Why face-to-face meetings still matter

A few weeks ago, something unusual happened at the March Recruitment offices. A candidate walked in off the street, completely unannounced, looking for a job. There was no prior email, no pre-arranged meeting - he simply took a chance and showed up. Intrigued by his confidence, we sat down with him for an impromptu interview. Within minutes, we could see that he was brilliant, his enthusiasm, experience and personality shone through in a way that would have been hard to capture over email or a video call. In just two days, we secured him a role that suited him perfectly. The whole process, which could have taken weeks through a more traditional, digital-first approach, was wrapped up in record time.

This experience got us thinking about the power of face-to-face interactions. Had this candidate gone through the usual process of sending a CV, waiting for a response and going through multiple online screenings, it would have taken much longer for his potential to be recognised. His decision to show up in person made all the difference and reinforced something we already knew: there is no substitute for face-to-face meetings.

The current sentiment towards in-person meetings

In today’s workplace, opinions on in-person meetings vary. While some professionals thrive in face-to-face interactions, others, particularly younger employees, find them daunting. A recent survey of 2,000 working adults revealed that 74% struggle with small talk in office settings. Among Gen Z employees, 40% admitted they feel more comfortable communicating digitally rather than in person. As workplaces become more reliant on messaging apps and virtual meetings, the skills and confidence needed for spontaneous, in-person interactions are fading.

Despite this shift, many professionals still recognise the effectiveness of in-person meetings. A study found that 59% of employees believe face-to-face interactions enhance productivity, as they allow for immediate feedback, stronger engagement, and a more natural flow of discussion. Virtual meetings may be convenient, but they often lack the spontaneous exchanges and deeper conversations that happen when people are in the same room.

The benefits of face-to-face meetings

One of the biggest advantages of meeting in person is the ability to build stronger relationships. Research suggests that 85% of professionals feel they establish more meaningful connections during face-to-face meetings and conferences. Being physically present allows for a deeper level of engagement, where body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice all contribute to better understanding and trust. These elements are difficult to replicate through a screen, where nuances can be lost, and interactions may feel more transactional.

Face-to-face meetings also have a significant impact on collaboration and creativity. When people share the same space, discussions flow more naturally and ideas emerge more spontaneously. Studies show that physical meetings generate an average of 13 productive ideas, compared to just 10 in virtual settings. The energy in the room, combined with direct eye contact and immediate reactions, fosters an environment where innovation thrives.

Communication itself is far more effective in person. Non-verbal cues - such as gestures, tone, and expressions - play a crucial role in delivering messages accurately. Research shows that in-person requests are 34 times more successful than those made via email. The ability to convey sincerity, enthusiasm, or urgency is much stronger face-to-face, making real-world interactions a powerful tool for persuasion and decision-making.

The power of face-to-face interaction

Beyond efficiency and productivity, the real strength of in-person meetings lies in their ability to build trust and authenticity. Unlike digital communication, where messages can be misinterpreted or delayed, face-to-face interactions allow for immediate clarification and feedback. They create an environment where people feel more engaged and valued, leading to stronger professional relationships and a more cohesive team dynamic.

Face-to-face meetings also reinforce workplace culture by encouraging genuine social interactions. Employees who regularly engage in in-person discussions with their colleagues and managers report higher job satisfaction and a greater sense of belonging. Stronger workplace relationships often translate to better retention rates, as employees feel more connected to their teams and their organisation.

 As businesses navigate the balance between remote work and office life, the value of face-to-face meetings is more important than ever. Whether it’s a spontaneous job interview or a crucial business discussion, the simple act of showing up in person can make all the difference.