Effective leadership requires strong communication skills, and the benefits of face-to-face communication should not be forgotten. As remote work becomes more prevalent in our post-pandemic world, it is crucial to maintain these meaningful connections, even if they happen virtually. Doing so can foster a culture of trust, collaboration, and productivity.

Compared to written or audio-only communication, face-to-face interactions enable participants to pick up on nonverbal cues and body language. According to research by Dr. Albert Mehrabian, author of “Silent Messages,” approximately 93% of communication is nonverbal. This figure highlights the importance of being able to see one another during conversations.

Strong leaders understand that face-to-face communication helps them effectively connect with team members, especially when addressing difficult topics or providing constructive feedback. In the digital age, video conferencing technology allows us to achieve this level of interaction even when we are not physically in the same room.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, remote and hybrid work arrangements have become more common, and in a 2020 survey conducted by PwC, 91% of employees expressed a desire to continue working remotely at least part of the time. Consequently, companies now rely heavily on video conferencing software.

Several studies emphasize the importance of face-to-face communication in various contexts. In 2014, a study conducted by researchers from Cornell University and Beijing University found that face-to-face communication significantly increased cooperation and trust among participants compared to digital methods. These findings underscore the importance of fostering personal interactions, even in a virtual setting.

One of the most valuable aspects of face-to-face communication is its ability to keep employees in the loop.

Remote work can offer numerous benefits, such as saving time and money on commuting and providing a better work-life balance. However, it can also lead to feelings of isolation and being left out, mainly when some team members work in the office while others work remotely. Leaders can ensure remote colleagues feel included and connected by maintaining face-to-face communication through regular one-on-one and team meetings. Incorporating virtual coffee breaks or team-building activities can also strengthen these connections.

Face-to-face communication can also reduce misunderstandings by allowing individuals to observe each other’s nonverbal cues. Communication channels like email, text messages, or audio calls are more prone to miscommunication and lost information. 

In addition to improving clarity, video conferences are often quicker and more efficient. Lengthy email chains can waste time and hinder productivity. According to a study conducted by McKinsey Global Institute, the average employee spends more than three hours per day communicating by email for work-related reasons. Furthermore, after every distracting email notification, it takes 64 seconds to refocus one’s attention. By engaging in face-to-face communication, teams can reduce these distractions and foster a more productive work environment.

Face-to-face communication also plays a crucial role in building strong professional and personal relationships; employees can develop trust, empathy, and rapport with their colleagues. In a remote work environment, nurturing these relationships through virtual face-to-face interactions can enhance team cohesion, job satisfaction, and overall productivity.

Remote work is here to stay, so leaders need to adapt their communication strategies accordingly. By prioritizing face-to-face communication, even in a virtual setting, leaders can empower their teams to collaborate effectively, build strong interpersonal connections, and drive success in the modern workplace.

Consider the following tips:

Make video calls a priority: Encourage the use of video conferencing software for meetings and one-on-one conversations. This allows participants to observe nonverbal cues, improving overall communication.

Create a virtual open-door policy: Encourage team members and management to reach out to each other, fostering a culture of openness and collaboration.

Schedule regular team meetings: By holding consistent team meetings through video calls, you can ensure everyone stays informed, connected, and engaged.

Engage in virtual team-building activities: Host online team-building events, such as virtual happy hours, game nights, or coffee breaks.

Be mindful of time zones: With remote work, colleagues may be spread across different time zones. Schedule meetings and calls at times that are convenient for everyone.

By prioritizing physical and virtual face-to-face interactions, teams can maintain strong interpersonal connections, foster a culture of trust and collaboration, and boost overall productivity. Embracing this approach will not only benefit the team but also contribute to the success of the organization in the long run.