Technology has been a lifesaver for Sales & Marketing pros — but when it comes to crunch time, buyers want to see you and hear your proposal. Here’s proof:

New research from Gartner, an IT research and advisory company, shows that proposals presented in person were 50% more likely to win over customers.

Sure, it’s tempting (and might save a few bucks) to set up a conference call, or e-mail a PowerPoint presentation to prospective buyers and walk them through it on the phone — but making a critical presentation in person is also an opportunity for you to build credibility and win the trust of buyers.

Plus, it’s a chance for buyers to learn as much as possible about you — and it allows you to look them in the eye and get a better gauge of how interested they are in buying.

It also signals that you’re willing to put in the effort needed to maintain a productive business relationship over the long haul — which makes it more likely they’ll come back to you the next time a need arises.

Tags: Gartner, IT, PowerPoint, presentations, research, Technology