Why In-Person Meetings Matter for Remote Teams

Why In-Person Meetings Matter for Remote Teams: Building Connections Beyond the Screen

As remote work becomes the norm, companies worldwide are reconsidering how to keep employees connected and engaged across distances. The convenience and flexibility of remote work are undeniable, yet the absence of physical interaction brings its own set of challenges. While technology keeps us connected, face-to-face interactions have irreplaceable value, offering unique opportunities for collaboration, trust-building, and alignment that virtual meetings struggle to replicate. AMX Consulting has embraced the importance of in-person interactions, celebrating an annual summer and Christmas party that foster not only connection and camaraderie but also a realignment of the company's strategic vision.

One of the fascinating insights into the benefits of in-person meetings is the role of oxytocin, in creating meaningful work relationships. According to research, oxytocin is released during positive, in-person interactions, promoting a sense of trust and deepening social bonds. As Dr. Paul J. Zak (2018) director of the Center for Neuroeconomics Studies at Claremont Graduate University, explains, high levels of oxytocin cause people to work harder to help the group achieve its goals. In-person gatherings like AMX Consulting's summer party are not just about fun; they also facilitate genuine interactions that boost oxytocin levels. These interactions help to reinforce a supportive and cohesive workplace culture, building trust and enhancing collaboration among team members in ways that virtual meetings simply can't replicate.

Furthermore, beyond team bonding, in-person meetings are a crucial opportunity to recalibrate on strategic priorities. At our summer party, we dedicated time to retrospectives, an invaluable practice where we assessed past successes, analyzed areas for improvement, and set goals for the months and years to come. These face-to-face conversations allowed us to engage in deep discussions about the future, bringing ideas and perspectives that remote meetings may not fully capture. Research by Stanford University highlights (2022) that in-person interactions generated between 15% and 20% more ideas than those that met over video, this means that in-person meeting provides a scenario to have effective brainstorming and problem-solving, as the physical presence of others can enhance communication and idea generation.

In-person meetings offer essential benefits for remote teams, especially in enhancing communication, collaboration, and trust. Unlike virtual exchanges, face-to-face interactions naturally encourage spontaneity, immediate feedback, and clarity in discussions, allowing teams to tackle complex topics with ease. Regular in-person gatherings also strengthen company culture by giving employees a direct connection to the organization’s mission, values, and each other. These moments of connection build a sense of belonging and identity that virtual meetings often lack. Additionally, in-person meetings foster trust—an invaluable asset that promotes openness and collaboration, essential for a cohesive and high-performing team. These combined benefits lead to higher engagement, job satisfaction, retention, and productivity, creating a positive and sustainable cycle within the workplace.

At AMX, the question is not whether in-person meetings are valuable —that’s evident, and research overwhelmingly supports it—, but rather how frequently they should occur within a fully remote work environment. While we aim for two annual all-company gatherings, team-based in-person meetings are also encouraged. However, planning and organizing these events can be time-intensive, as the flexibility remote work offers can complicate coordinating schedules for in-person interactions. How can we overcome these barriers, stay productive, strengthen bonds, and still enjoy the flexibility of remote work? Striking the right balance is a challenge, but it’s essential to remember that the rewards of in-person gatherings—deepened relationships, renewed commitment, and a thriving company culture—are well worth the effort. These events contribute significantly to a more engaged, motivated, and cohesive team, making the investment in time and coordination truly invaluable.

In conclusion, in-person events like our summer party are vital touchpoints for remote teams, creating lasting bonds and ensuring alignment with our strategic vision. As we continue our journey of growth and excellence, these events remain a cornerstone of our success, uniting us in shared goals and a shared sense of purpose.

References

Edmund L. Andrews (2022, June 29). Thinking inside the box: Why virtual meetings generate fewer ideas. Stanford Graduate School of Business. https://www.gsb.stanford.edu/insights/thinking-inside-box-why-virtual-meetings-generate-fewer-ideas

Paul J. Zalk. (2018, June 6). How oxytocin can make your job more meaningful. Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley. https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/how_oxytocin_can_make_your_job_more_meaningful