Why emails can't replace handshakes

Let's start the year with a bold prediction: 2025 will be the big comeback of human connection. People will trust their screens less and crave authentic experiences more. Here's why it matters for business: The pandemic has been over for a while now. People miss the core part of being human -- being around other people. We see this need everywhere: - Face-to-face meetings deliver substantially better outcomes than virtual ones - In person communities like board game and running clubs are surging - Dating apps are losing ground to real-world matchmaking events Another factor is also at play: Digital content overload. AI content was already flooding feeds and inboxes in 2023, but in just a year, we've gone from obviously fake AI content to deepfakes that make us question everything we see. Even video content that used to be a digital receipt of authenticity, is losing credibility. People are instead fleeing to closed communities and in-person events. The implications for Customer Success are massive. Yes, AI and digital tools will handle the administrative load. But although efficiency is everything, it isn't the end goal – it's just the beginning. The real question is: What to do with all that freed-up time? The answer: Get back to basics. Meet customers. We've been so caught up in "async efficiency" that we've forgotten the fundamentals of relationship building. While Slack messages and Loom videos can transfer information, they can't build trust like a shared coffee or handshake can. The future of Customer Success isn't about choosing between digital efficiency and human connection. It's about using technology to create more space for real relationships. 2025 won't be the death of digital – it will be the year we'll finally get the balance right. And those who understand this shift will thrive.

In sales, it’s easy to hide behind messages. “I texted them on WhatsApp.” “I mailed them.” And we tick the box like the job is done. But let’s be honest — a text can be ignored. An email can sit unopened for days. Nothing really moves until you make it move. When you pick up the phone and call, the game changes. You hear their tone, they hear yours. That simple “Sasa, how are you doing?” opens doors a message never will. And when you visit? Even better. A handshake, a smile, and showing up in person builds trust faster than ten perfectly written emails. I’ve learned that deals rarely close in the inbox. They close in real conversations — where objections are handled and relationships are built. So before you say, “But I already texted them,” pause. Did you call? Did you visit? Because sales isn’t about just reaching out. It’s about showing up. Kwa ground, that’s where things really happen.

AI Can’t Shake Hands, and that’s why showing up still matters… community, collaboration, and conversations are the secret weapons in a fast changing world. Somewhere along the way, society has stopped (or slowed down in) prioritizing community engagement. Networking events, industry meetups, and local business groups don’t get the same turnout they used to. And it’s not just individuals… companies aren’t stepping up like they once did, either. Sponsorships, community support, and that little spark for the common good? Sometimes, it feels like it’s fading. But here’s the thing: AI CAN’T SHAKE HANDS. AI can introduce you to someone, but it can’t build trust. AI can schedule a meeting, but it can’t create a real connection. AI can personalize content, but it can’t replace those unexpected conversations that lead to big ideas, partnerships, and friendships. This is why showing up still matters. In Austin, I see it all the time. At the Austin Technology Council (ATC), we try to bring together the people shaping the future of our city’s tech scene. And the most valuable part? It’s not the speakers or panels—it’s the conversations over coffee, the introductions that turn into collaborations, the connections that wouldn’t happen if people stayed home. Community isn’t built through likes, links, shares, and follows…It’s built through commitment. Opportunities don’t just come from knowing people, they come from being in the room with people. The ones who show up, consistently, are the ones who get ahead over a lifetime. So here’s my challenge: If you care about your career, your business, your industry, or your community… be present. Show up to events. Support your local business groups. Make time for real conversations. Because while AI can do a lot, it will never replace the power of human connection. #AICantShakeHands #UncommonConnections #Networking

The Missing Link in Modern Brokerage Technology is transforming our business. AI tools, virtual tours, CRMs... they’re all powerful. But technology is not a replacement for human connection. Andrew Rasmussen asked me what today’s generation of brokers might be missing compared to seasoned pros. My answer? Interpersonal skills. Too many people hide behind screens. Texting instead of calling, emailing instead of meeting. But in brokerage, relationships are the currency. Calls start the conversation. Meetings deepen the bond. Face-to-face interaction builds trust that no algorithm can replicate. The most successful brokers I know master both worlds. They leverage tech to be more efficient, but they never skip the handshake, the eye contact, the genuine conversation. So here’s your challenge: This week, replace one text with a call. Replace one Zoom with a coffee. See what happens when you bring back the personal touch. Human connection is your ultimate competitive advantage. #WWBKD #BKREA #NYCRealEstate

The Power of the Handshake… In a world increasingly driven by clicks, swipes, and the sterile nature of digital agreements, the handshake still reigns supreme in manufacturing. This simple act of two hands meeting cements relationships, forges partnerships, and symbolizes a trust. The handshake dates back to ancient times when extending an open palm signified, “I come in peace, and I’m not hiding a weapon.” Fast forward to today, and it’s still a gesture that disarms—not in battle, but in negotiations. In manufacturing, where deals are often sealed with multimillion-dollar machinery or year-long supply chain commitments, a handshake is a bond. A handshake on the shop floor says, “I trust you to deliver that part with a tolerance tighter than a duck’s tail.” It’s a promise—sometimes more binding than ink on paper. It’s a gesture that transcends languages, cultures, and even the occasional argument over lead times. Sure, we live in a time where digital signatures and Zoom meetings dominate. But even the sleekest DocuSign can’t replicate the trust of looking someone in the eye and shaking their hand. Manufacturers know this. Whether it’s at a factory tour in Japan, a machine demo in Germany, or a local shop’s open house, the handshake reminds us that no amount of technology can replace human connection. In fact, some would argue that the handshake is even more critical now. In an era of globalization and reshoring, where relationships span continents and time zones, that in-person handshake serves as a foundation for everything else. It’s the bridge between the digital and the physical, the contract and the commitment. REGO-FIX Group Pascal Forrer Harshal Dongaonkar IMTEX

In-person networking is a waste of time. Why bother with the awkward small talk, the forced smiles, and the endless exchange of business cards when you could just connect online? I used to believe this, too, and I also used to hate it. It made me uncomfortable. But the truth is, in-person networking is anything but a waste of time. These days, I actually love it. LinkedIn interactions, emails, Zoom calls, and webinars can only get you so far. Sure, they’re convenient, but they lack the depth and authenticity needed to build genuine, lasting business relationships. You can exchange a thousand emails, but they will never match the impact of a face-to-face conversation. When you meet someone in person, you create a stronger, more memorable connection. Our brains are hardwired for genuine in flesh and blood interaction. We recognize and remember faces, body language, and the nuances of in-person communication. This entire experience makes it more memorable and trustworthy. When you shake someone’s hand, share a laugh, or look them in the eye, you’re building a foundation of trust that’s hard to achieve through a screen. We don’t form deep connections with usernames. We connect with people. Authentic interactions evoke emotions, spark ideas, and build lasting bonds. So, it's not just about collecting contacts. It’s about creating meaningful relationships that drive mutual business growth.

I've been overthinking things- why do I network like I do (on the golf course)? Either read below or watch a recent networking video I'm part of. An office discussion inspired me to share how I engage in the modern world of virtual connections. Personally, I value in-person meetings; we have all seen how email, teams calls and apps have all but replaced in person engagement- sometimes its efficient but rarely works to build strong business relationships. Body language, tone, eye contact: these subtle signals are essential to building trust. On screen, they’re reduced or lost entirely. What feels natural in person often comes off flat or awkward online. No shared experiences: In-person networking gives you moments -laughing over coffee, collaborating on the spot, or bumping into other colleagues whilst on a company site. Virtual calls tend to be transactional. When the call ends, so does the interaction. Digital fatigue: if I do have a work from home day I get overwhelmed by virtual noise—endless messages, pings, and invites. It’s harder to stand out, and even harder to make a lasting impression when everyone’s multitasking. Trust takes longer to build: Relationships thrive on small, repeated interactions over time. You can't replicate chemistry: Sometimes, a handshake, a shared laugh, or sharing a round of golf is what sparks that real connection. And that simply doesn’t translate through a screen. That’s why in-person networking (for me "FORE" Business) is more valuable than ever. It gives you the space, time, and atmosphere to build authentic relationships in a disconnected world. #RealConnections #InPersonMatters #RelationshipBuilding #NetworkingIn2025 #ForeBusiness https://lnkd.in/emn59czr

The Power of Real, In-Person Connections in Business In a world that’s gone fully digital, there’s something powerful about stepping away from the screens and meeting people face-to-face. It’s easy to send emails, join Zoom calls, and track engagement metrics, but nothing beats the depth of an in-person conversation. When you sit down with someone, shake their hand, look them in the eye—you form a connection that goes beyond the transactional, you start to understand not just what they need but who they are. Those moments create a kind of trust and rapport that’s hard to replicate online. Meeting customers and partners in person reminds us that business isn’t just about transactions—it’s about relationships. It’s in those real, human interactions where you build lasting loyalty and create advocates who will champion your brand. And let’s be honest, isn’t that what every business truly needs? So, while digital tools are amazing for scaling and efficiency, never underestimate the value of a coffee chat, a handshake, or a shared moment of conversation. That’s where the real magic happens. #InPersonConnections #HumanTouch #BusinessRelationships #TrustBuilding Day 2 of posting on LinkedIn … Let me know your thoughts below.

Creating connections in the digital age is easy, fast, and convenient. Creating meaningful connections, on the other hand? That takes a little more effort — and maybe a look back at how things used to be. 🕰️ It struck me recently how much time we spend in front of screens. Yes, technology has helped us advance in incredible ways. But when it comes to forming and maintaining strong relationships — whether professional or personal — I’d argue it’s sometimes done the opposite. Why is it that while we’re the most connected generation in history, we’re also the loneliest? 🤔 Think about the last time you really connected with someone. Was it face to face? Or were you messaging over text or Instagram? To be clear, I’m not saying digital tools aren’t valuable — they absolutely are. But if we only rely on them and never meet in person (or at the very least over video), we miss the chance to form deeper, more meaningful connections. Eye contact 👀, a handshake 🤝, shared laughter 😄, reading emotion in real time — these are powerful, human things that have helped us build relationships for centuries. Why stop now? So here’s my challenge: ask a friend, colleague, or family member to go for a walk or grab a coffee ☕. You might be surprised how rejuvenating and grounding it is. And from a recruitment perspective — if you’re looking for a new role, consider reaching out to hiring managers, recruiters, HR professionals, or someone at a company you're interested in. Ask if they’d be open to a coffee chat or a quick video call (we at MatchBox Consulting Group definitely love our coffee!). Even if they don’t have an immediate opening, I guarantee you’ll stand out compared to others who only sent a LinkedIn message or an email. Human connection is powerful. Let’s not forget that.

Recently, I've been thinking about an insight that I wanted to share. In this era of digital wonders and social media geniuses, there's one thing I've come to truly value - personal networking. You see, I've jumped headfirst into the digital land, amazed at the reach of social media, and exposed in the convenience of online connections. But among all this, I've found that there's something profoundly true about meeting people face-to-face, shaking hands, and sharing a genuine smile. Let me tell you why I believe this. It's because personal networking keeps it real. In a world where we're often reduced to profile pictures and emojis, where interactions can sometimes feel transactional, there's an irreplaceable authenticity in sitting across from someone, looking them in the eye, and having a real, honest conversation. It's the way you can instantly gauge someone's honesty, the warmth of their handshake, and the genuine enthusiasm in their voice. You can't replace that with a thousand messages or a hundred likes. Don't get me wrong; digital tools are fantastic. They expand our horizons, help us connect with people around the world, and open doors that might have otherwise remained closed. But they can't replicate the magic of a personal connection. Through personal networking, I've forged friendships, sealed deals, and discovered opportunities that would've escaped me in the digital realm. It's about building trust, understanding needs, and sharing experiences. So, as much as I embrace technology and the digital age, I also treasure those coffee meetings, networking events, and chance encounters where bonds are formed, ideas are sparked, and business flourishes. In a world that sometimes seems to be spinning faster and faster, there's a timeless quality to personal networking. It's a reminder that within the digital noise, it's the human touch, the authentic connection, that truly counts. Cheers to keeping it real, my friends! #Networking #HumanConnections #DigitalAge #RealConnections