There’s a simple strategy that has fallen out of favor in the last few years: meeting people in-person. In the age of online meetings we’ve lost the connection that is built when you meet someone face-to-face.
Why screens fall short
Video calls may feel efficient, but they flatten us. On a screen you’re just another square competing with inboxes, notifications, and open tabs. Constant access to distractions make it harder to connect. In person, you’re harder to ignore or tune out. And, its easier to have a genuine interaction face to face.
Conversations that build trust
Polished decks and social media posts don’t create trust. Trust comes from the moments between words, eye contact, tone, a shift in posture that shows someone feels understood. When you’re present, listening, and adjusting in real time, people believe you can help. Face-to-face conversations also give you feedback you can’t get online. You see the spark when an idea lands, or the nod when you’ve hit the real pain point. Those signals tell you what matters most and let you adapt on the spot.
Presence as a competitive edge
Believe me, I am not advocating for everyone to return to an office. I have been working remotely for 15+ years, have fully embraced a work from home lifestyle and cannot imagine going back to an office. However, I fully recognize the benefits of meeting people face-to-face and will go out of my way (I’m an introvert, so not too far, but far enough 😂) to connect with clients, potential clients and collaborators in person.
You don’t need to attend every conference or networking event, just the right ones. Or maybe it’s a one-on-one coffee meeting (my personal favorite!). Show up with the intention to listen, ask better questions, and follow up while the conversation is fresh. Most competitors are chasing efficiency, not connection, which leaves an opening for anyone willing to show up and be real.
Bottom Line: Technology may help you reach people, but it rarely makes you memorable. Presence does. And presence is still the sharpest competitive edge in business.
Carrie
Not subscribed yet? Click here to change that.
