Survey shows value of tea and coffee in successful meetings
According to a recent study by Hilton Worldwide, more than two-thirds of professionals, ranging from millennials to seniors aged over 65, prefer meeting in person over any other collaboration method.
The study, which polled business professionals across the United States, the United Kingdom and China, revealed the value of face-to-face interaction and specifically the role of coffee and tea in productive meetings.
While Americans are known for their coffee enthusiasm, people from the UK and China value their kick-start beverages more in the business world. More professionals in the UK, accounting for 61 percent and China, 58 percent, said the most successful meetings happen over coffee and tea - compared to their counterparts in the US at 44 percent.
The study also shows that 71 percent of city dwellers in the US believe coffee is important to the success of meetings.
The Chinese believe most strongly in the connection power of coffee, with 54 percent of professionals in China saying that sharing coffee or tea makes people feel more connected and 56 percent saying that talking over coffee or tea makes people feel more comfortable. The corresponding figures were 43 percent in the US and 37 percent in the UK.
The survey also found that 67 percent of Chinese would rather be in a 2-hour meeting in a comfortable room than in a 15-minute meeting in an uncomfortable room.
Meanwhile, 76 percent of Chinese said ambience or decor is also important for a successful meeting, and 88 percent prefer a formal, traditional meeting space.
To encourage connections and ignite powerful ideas over coffee, Hilton launched a global coffee promotion, providing complimentary coffee or tea for the first meeting break at participating Hilton properties. Meetings booked now through Nov 15, which take place before March 31, 2016, are eligible for the offer.
"The most impactful events involve face-to-face interactions that allow individuals to connect on a personal level," said Andrew Flack, vice-president of global marketing at Hilton Worldwide.
"It's interesting to see that, throughout the world, while we differ subtly in how we conduct meetings, we agree on the value of collaboration - which is often fueled by coffee or tea. We're excited to provide our meeting professional partners an opportunity to deliver the necessary elements to drive impactful meetings and great experiences for attendees."
zhuanTi@chinadaily.com.cn
(China Daily 10/17/2015 page10)
