More than two-thirds of professionals, ranging from Millennials to over 65 years of age, prefer meeting in-person over any other collaboration, according to a recent study by Hilton Worldwide of business professionals across the U.S., UK and China. The study also examined the role of coffee and tea in meetings and found the following:
• More professionals in the UK (61%) and China (58%) agree that the most successful meetings happen over coffee and tea – compared to their US counterparts (44%).
• Sixty-eight percent of professionals in the UK and more than half of Chinese respondents (59%) say that coffee and tea are important to contributing to a successful in-person meeting.
• Chinese professionals and US Millennials value the quality of coffee and tea. Fifty-four percent of Chinese and 51% of Millennials say that if it is going to be served in a meeting, then it must be high quality.
• More than half of Chinese respondents (53%) say that the best way to connect with a colleague or professional contact is over coffee and tea.
• Seventy-one percent of city dwellers in the U.S. say coffee is important to successful meetings.
In response to the study’s findings, Hilton launched a global coffee promotion, providing complimentary coffee or tea for the first meeting break at participating Hilton properties. Meetings booked now through November 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.”