Don’t Underestimate the Value of “Face” Time

February 24, 2009 – Orlando FL

As economic pressures have begun to mount on many small and medium sized businesses, one tool that has been used more and more frequently is “virtual” communications; basically, any exchange of information that is done other than “in person”.

The options for electronic connections have grown tremendously from the telephone and e-mail to include video and teleconferencing, instant messaging, text messaging on our cell phones, and social networking web sites like MySpace and Facebook.com. Let’s not forget about blogs (such as this one!), where comments can be a conversation.

For the most part, virtual contact is inexpensive and convenient, which certainly gives this type of communication the upper hand for many basic, day-to-day operations. But this ease of use for virtual communications can also be its downfall. In a word, it is seen as more “anonymous” than a physical meeting; and often has far less perceived value or significance in the minds of those you do business with.

Ask yourself this question: what is more likely to build or maintain a long-term business relationship – a quick email, instant message or virtual conference…or a live, person to person meeting?

Never underestimate the value of real time, human interaction between people. Face-to-face meetings are far more effective in building rapport, creating personal connections between individuals, and creating loyalty from customers and among business partners. Live meetings deliver the rich, potent experiences that virtual meetings can’t.

So, when you’re deciding whether to have an online meeting or a face-to-face meeting, consider whether the relationships everyone will form are more valuable than everyone’s cost of traveling to the meeting. This is true regardless of the business climate, and it could be argued that it is even more vital during times of economic turmoil.

Stratos Jet Charters can provide you with multiple aircraft options – across a range of budgets – for your most important meetings, to help you and your firm achieve long-term success.

Joel A. Thomas, Owner – Stratos Jet Charters
888 478-7286
http://www.stratosjets.com/