In recent years, we’ve witnessed a seismic shift in the way client meetings are conducted. The catalyst for this transformation? Well, as with many aspects of life, it was the Covid-19 pandemic that brought about a change to client meetings as we knew them.
As the world grappled with unprecedented challenges, businesses were compelled to adapt rapidly, leading to the meteoric rise of virtual client meeting platforms. In this article, we delve into the evolution of these platforms and explore why they have become the preferred choice for many organisations.
The pre-covid era – traditional face-to-face meetings
Before the pandemic, face-to-face meetings were the norm. Businesses would often spend significant sums on travel, accommodation, and venue hire to facilitate these interactions. While there’s no denying the value of in-person communication, this approach had its limitations in terms of cost, time, and environmental impact.
The onset of Covid-19 – A forced digital transition
According to research carried out by Doodle, virtual one-on-one meetings increased by a staggering 1,230% in 2020. It is no coincidence that these numbers rose during the height of the pandemic.
When Covid-19 struck, businesses worldwide faced a dilemma: adapt or perish. With travel restrictions and lockdowns in place, organisations had to pivot quickly.
Enter virtual meeting platforms. Tools like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet became household names almost overnight.
These platforms offered a lifeline, enabling businesses to maintain continuity and stay connected with clients.
The benefits
As companies began to familiarise themselves with virtual platforms, the advantages became clear:
Efficiency – Virtual meetings eliminate travel time, allowing for more meetings in a day. This efficiency means decisions can be made faster, projects can move forward without delay, and productivity can soar.
Ease – With intuitive user interfaces and features like screen sharing, virtual backgrounds, and real-time captions, these platforms cater to a diverse range of needs, making meetings more inclusive and accessible.
Potential savings – The cost savings are undeniable. By cutting out travel, accommodation, and other associated expenses, businesses can allocate funds to other critical areas.
Beyond the pandemic
While the pandemic was the catalyst for the shift to virtual platforms, the change is here to stay. Many organisations have recognised the value of a hybrid model, blending in-person meetings with virtual ones. This approach offers flexibility, catering to the preferences of both clients and employees.
The future
The demand for virtual meeting platforms has spurred innovation. We’re seeing continuous enhancements in terms of security, functionality, and user experience. As technology advances, we can expect these platforms to become even more integral to the way we do business.
The COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably reshaped how businesses conduct meetings. While it brought challenges, it also ushered in a new era of digital transformation. Virtual client meeting platforms have proven to be more than just a temporary solution; they are a testament to human adaptability and the endless possibilities of technology. As we move forward, these platforms will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in defining the future of business communication.
At Summa Tech our Connect4 client meeting platform gives you and your team the structure you need to consistently deliver outstanding client meetings. Connect4 takes some of the more well-known platforms that much further, enabling pods to be set up for teams, and clients and a more collaborative experience by setting agendas and file sharing.
For more information about how Connect4 can revolutionise the way you conduct client meetings, contact us today.