The Value of Being Face to Face: Reflections from an SDSU and WD-40 Event

Last month, the Fowler College of Business at San Diego State University (SDSU — my alma mater) hosted an on-site event at WD-40 Company.
Most know WD-40 as one of the world’s most iconic brands in the “all-purpose” mechanical lubricant market.

The gathering brought together a dynamic mix of business and academic leaders, with approximately 90 professionals in attendance.

Here’s a quick summary of the event:

Hot off the Press: SDSU Research and Insights for Business Leaders
Attendees received an exclusive preview of cutting-edge research ahead of its formal presentation at the Academy of Management conference in Copenhagen, Denmark.
The session featured panels led by SDSU’s distinguished professors, addressing today’s critical business challenges, including:

  • Exclusive insights from thought leaders before they hit the global stage.
  • Strategies to stay ahead of emerging trends in management and leadership.
  • Opportunities to network with top industry leaders and innovators.

The topics were timely, insightful, and sparked thoughtful discussions throughout the three-hour session.

However, what stood out to me most was a simple but powerful reminder:
There is no substitute for being face to face.

Virtual interactions serve a purpose, but they cannot replicate the energy, collaboration, and relationship-building that happens in person.
While hybrid work arrangements are part of today’s reality, when it comes to building true business connections — business gets done face to face.

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