Five Ways Video Conferences Trump Face to Face Meetings in a New Business Environment

Major advances in technology have drastically changed how and where we conduct business practice. With more people working remotely for the foreseeable future, on-demand communication methods are continuing to rise in the new business environment. For innovative businesses to grow, maintaining strong relationships with partners, investors, clients and other team members are essential, which is why having technology is so crucial today. Not only does video conferencing eliminate travel expenses, but it is also a great way to encourage employees to work collaboratively on projects while working remotely. 

The likes of Zooms and Teams have seen enormous growth in usage since the UK came into lockdown in March 2020, offering users video conferencing software for all types of meetings. But how do virtual meetings compare to face-to-face meetings? Will virtual meetings be the new norm in the future? Here are five ways that video conferences trump face to face meetings in a new business environment.

Advantages of video conferencing

Whilst many would argue that face-to-face meetings are always the ideal solution, there are a number of ways in which video conferencing benefits both businesses and individuals alike.

Cost-effective

Hosting meetings virtually immediately eliminates travel expenses. Whatsmore, a physical face-to-face meeting requires a meeting venue and sometimes accommodation depending on where the meeting is held. Virtual meetings that are held on Zoom or Teams only require a computer or mobile device that connects to the internet. 

Increased inclusivity

Hopping onto a call is effective and quick, and meaning that you are able to boost inclusivity levels radically. Taking virtual meetings creates a platform whereby most employees have a better opportunity to attend and get involved. Increased inclusivity is beneficial for both individuals and businesses, and virtual meetings facilitate this brilliantly. 

Presenting is more concise

Presenting to clients or partners is very different when doing so virtually. Arguably, many find it easier to present on a video call than in person as the physical tendencies that you may have while presenting face-to-face can disappear. As such, this can make it much easier to clearly explain your point without distraction.

Ease of sharing

There comes times in face-to-face meetings where your client may want access to certain files or slides. Most platforms have a ‘share screen’ or ‘share files’ option which gives the host the ability to effectively share visuals and documents immediately. There is no need for exchanging logins or remembering to email afterward, with virtual conferencing you can simply pass the baton and flawlessly continue your agenda.

Increased productivity 

Having the ability to schedule shorter meetings virtually increases the productivity of the meeting time that is being used. Before the pandemic, meetings would often run overtime, with hosts attempting to cover a plethora of information. Having virtual conference meetings removes this, and allows for much more efficient meetings when they are most needed.

While many long for the return of face to face meetings, there are plenty of benefits to look at in terms of virtual conferencing. But will this be something that organisations continue post-Covid? We think that virtual conferencing is something that will become a permanent fixture long after the pandemic.