Finding an economic deposit does not necessarily mean it will be developed. Exploration and mine development by its very nature is expensive, high risk, often located in remote areas, potentially challenging political jurisdictions, shareholder activism, increasing regulatory requirements, overlapping regulatory agencies, cross cultural issues, anti-mining – climate change activism, technical challenges, availability of qualified and experienced labour and uncertain development lead times. As a result, a critical element in the successful of a deposit is to obtain a “Social Licence to Operate”. To help accomplish this, mining exploration and development companies have increasingly resorted to using public relation firms, communication departments and social media to communicate with employees, communities, stakeholders, media, governments and regulatory bodies. With the recent Covid-19 pandemic, the use of video conferencing, virtual conferences popularized by such applications as Zoom have seen remote work and communication grow exponentially. Hardly a day goes by without extoling the benefits (mostly financial) of this new normal. “Offices will be downsized, commuting reduced, flexible work hours. This was already a trend prior to the pandemic. Covid-19 accelerated the process in the author’s view. In an increasingly virtual, AI, devoid of human contact world, “Is there still room for a “hands on”, “boots on the ground” to obtain this licence? Is it possible to gain the trust, transparency, understanding and respect required through a tablet or computer screen?