As remote and hybrid work arrangements become the new reality for many employees, the debate around the value of connecting in person rages on. And while there are many facets to that argument, one aspect that has yet to be fully explored is how digital communication impacts people’s willingness to help each other.
Need a Favor? Research Suggests It’s Best to Ask In Person.
A recent study found that people were 67% more likely to agree to in-person requests than those made over audio or video call.
December 20, 2021
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Summary.
When you need help with something, do you send an email, make call, schedule a Zoom, or ask in person? A recent study found that although many of us assume that the mode of communication doesn’t make much of a difference, people are significantly more likely to say “yes” to an in-person request than to one made via a digital communication channel. The researchers further found that while most forms of digital communication are similarly effective in terms of getting someone to agree to do you a favor, email is substantially less likely effective than audio or video chat. Based on these findings, the authors argue that if your goal is to maximize the chances that you’ll get a “yes,” asking face-to-face is likely to be your best bet.