29 May

Written By Damian Hickey

It’s my experience that well run in-person meetings have certain characteristics which contribute to the magic of reaching creative solutions and these are harder to achieve in virtual meetings.

Nonverbal Communication

In-person meetings allow for a richer exchange of nonverbal cues, including facial expressions, gestures, and body language. These cues provide additional context and cues for understanding and empathising with others' perspectives. Nonverbal communication can enhance the depth and nuance of conversations, leading to more creative and collaborative problem-solving.

Spontaneity and Serendipity

Face-to-face interactions provide opportunities for spontaneous discussions and serendipitous encounters. The casual conversations before and after formal meetings, chance encounters in hallways or communal areas, and impromptu brainstorming sessions can spark new ideas and perspectives that might not arise in a structured virtual meeting environment. These unplanned interactions can lead to innovative solutions and unexpected connections.

Social Bonding and Trust

In-person meetings foster a sense of social bonding and trust among participants. The shared physical presence enables individuals to build rapport, establish personal connections, and develop trust through nonverbal cues, personal interactions, and informal conversations. This foundation of trust can enhance collaboration, risk-taking, and the sharing of novel ideas.

Group Dynamics

In-person meetings often involve group discussions and dynamics that can contribute to creative solutions. Face-to-face interactions allow for real-time exchanges of ideas, brainstorming, and immediate feedback, fostering a collaborative and energizing environment. Group dynamics, such as lively discussions, debates, and collective problem-solving, can stimulate creativity and lead to innovative outcomes.

Sensory Engagement

In-person meetings engage multiple senses, creating a more immersive experience. The physical environment, including the meeting room layout, visual aids, and tangible materials, can stimulate creativity and provide a sensory context for problem-solving. The use of visuals, prototypes, or physical objects during in-person meetings can facilitate a deeper understanding of ideas and enhance the creative process.

Psychological Safety

In-person meetings, when conducted in a supportive environment, can promote psychological safety among participants. The physical proximity and interpersonal connections can create a safe space for open and honest discussions, where individuals feel comfortable sharing unconventional ideas or challenging assumptions. Psychological safety encourages risk-taking, divergent thinking, and the exploration of novel solutions.

It's important to note that virtual meetings have their own advantages and can foster creativity and collaboration to a certain extent. However, the magic that happens during in-person meetings often stems from the unique blend of nonverbal communication, spontaneity, social bonding, group dynamics, sensory engagement, and psychological safety that they offer.

Organisations can strive to combine the best aspects of both in-person and virtual meetings to leverage the benefits of each and optimise the creative problem-solving process.