Com-Tech Learning Solutions team participated in the MISA BC Fall Conference in Sidney BC, September 20th – 23rd , 2011.

It was a pleasure seeing all the familiar faces and meeting the new ones. Thank you all for participating and look forward to seeing everyone in 2012 in Harrison HotSprings

What does this imply about making a choice between in-person or online communication?

It means that there is no substitute for meeting someone in person. In fact, we usually don’t say that we have “met” someone unless we have met them in the real world. The key point is that when you meet someone in person, you are not just doing business or exchanging information; you are establishing a relationship.

Why are in-person meetings irreplaceable?

• As mentioned above, human beings learn a great deal about each other from tone of voice, body language and personality characteristics that simply can’t be conveyed by email.
• The small talk that occurs when people meet allows them to feel more comfortable with each other. Small talk “lightens things up” and helps people to open up. They begin to talk about subjects other than business, and this is part of developing a relationship.
• Often, there is a random aspect to spontaneous conversations that can lead to helpful information about mutual acquaintances, shared passions and possible job leads.
• Meeting someone in person is memorable. Once you’ve established a relationship with someone, they are more likely to think of you when a job opening comes up that would fit your skills and personality. Also, they may recommend you to friends in their network.
• In-person communication takes time. Spending time with someone proves that they are valuable to you, whether as a friend or as a business associate.

For all of the above reasons, real-life encounters will always be a part of business communication, including meetings, job interviews, conferences and networking events.