Even in today’s wireless world, the value of face-to-face meetings continues to be a key ingredient in establishing solid and lasting business relationships. The impact of human contact in the business world has been studied in some depth by various research organizations, demonstrating that a handshake and a smile go a long way to create rapport, comfort and trust with a client or supplier.
A survey of 400 corporate executives conducted by the Kellogg School of Management showed a direct relationship between a company’s investment in business travel (including meetings, trade shows and conference) and its ability to keep existing customers, convert prospects and build relationships. Top executives estimate that roughly 40 percent of their prospective customers are converted to new business with face-to-face meetings compared to only 16 percent without. In fact, more than 75 percent of customers require, or prefer, face-to-face meetings. Corporate executives from around the world confirm that 28 percent of their business would be lost without in-person meetings. Additionally, trade show participation is particularly strong; business travelers stated 5 to 20 percent of new business resulted from trade shows.
While virtual meetings are becoming more commonplace and can save time and money in certain instances, the personal interaction of a face-to-face meeting is more effective when participants need to express feelings, coordinate tasks or persuade others.
Plan Ahead Events specializes in organizing and planning corporate meetings, trade shows, conventions, and retreats. Plan Ahead Events can help your company establish a positive image by creating that perfect event for face-to-face contact with important clients. If you haven’t met with clients in person recently, then now is the time to plan a corporate function or exciting event. Face-to-face meetings and introductions gain more importance in our technologically driven society, and Plan Ahead Events will coordinate, plan and execute your networking event to its full potential.
About Plan Ahead Events: Since its inception in 2007, Plan Ahead Events has grown to more than 50 locations across the U.S., Canada and Australia. The company is a division of the United Franchise Group and specializes in event planning for trade shows and conventions, corporate meetings, retreats and promotion of new products or strategies. PAE’s event specialists can also assist with planning and procuring products for company branding and recognition programs. To learn more about Plan Ahead Events, visit: http://planaheadevents.com.
