Coffee? Why Face to Face Meetings Enhance Your Career

Coffee, Tea, Juice, a glass of water, even something a little bit stronger - whatever your tipple I want to explore why more face to face interaction specifically in a relaxed setting can be a career enhancer.

In my line of work, I try and meet as many people as I can face to face. This is not a recruitment article, but the principle is sound, when I meet people in person, I always come away with a much better understanding of their capabilities & who they are. Beyond doubt, one coffee is worth ten plus phone interactions, maybe more.

The same applies in your career.

Covid (Eugh) SORRY I hate mentioning it anymore, but in reality it set many of us back. Before lockdowns most of us were likely in the office 99% of the time and the thought of grabbing a quick drink to network was relatively easy and natural. I have certainly seen a decrease in the willingness to meet in more recent times, partly due to convenience (Remote working - I get it) and partly down to a hangover from the pandemic.

It saddens me, as I believe many of us are missing out on the meaningful interactions that could result in the next best opportunity.

So this article is all about setting YOU a challenge.

I want you to actively, increase the number of face to face meetings you are having.

If you are currently on ZERO a month, make it ONE.

If you are at ONE, make it TWO.

You get the picture, start small, but report back on the positives it brings.

Why though?

• Deeper Connections Face-to-face interactions allow you to connect on a personal level!
• Stronger Relationships Meeting in person helps build trust and rapport more quickly, leading to stronger professional relationships that can open doors to new opportunities, collaborations, and referrals.
• Improved Communication In-person meetings allow for richer, more nuanced conversations where body language, tone, and non-verbal cues can enhance understanding and minimize miscommunication. This also naturally builds your interview muscles as you are constantly putting yourself in a scenario where you will be talking about what you do...practice makes perfect.
• Increased Opportunities Face-to-face networking can lead to unexpected opportunities, from job offers to mentorship, partnerships, or valuable introductions, all of which can significantly advance your career. Believe me this works!
• Enhanced Personal Branding Being present physically makes you more memorable. The impression you leave during in-person meetings can strengthen your personal brand and make you stand out from the crowd.
• Better Assessment of Opportunities When meeting someone in person, you gain a clearer picture of whether a partnership or job opportunity is the right fit.

The list goes on and on.

Personal Experience

As many of you will know if you read my articles, I set up my own business this year. It's tough, it can be lonely at times, you can question yourself a lot.

I made the decision to reach out to an old contact, someone I have a lot of respect for, to ask for some impartial guidance and support. I had not spoken to this person much in nearly 10 years. We agreed to meet over a coffee and they have been invaluable in helping me with my personal & business growth.

For me it's a no brainer.

The more people you meet, chat to, build relationships with - the more opportunities that will present themselves.

What have you got to lose?

So here’s my challenge to you: step away from the screen and go out and increase your face-to-face meetings. Start small—maybe schedule one in-person meeting this month if you’re currently at zero, or double your current count if you're already making the effort. Imagine the possibilities that could arise from these genuine connections. It might just be the game-changer you’ve been waiting for!

North West Based? *If you are looking for further career advice, recruitment solutions etc then I am always open to a coffee, it would count as one of your meetings!

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Best,

Richard