During my outplacement, I had a running discussion/argument with my friend, Nancy Burke (from Lee Hecht Harrison) about face-to-face versus phone meetings.
I prefer face-to-face meetings, as I feel they build a stronger connection. A point that most people agree they do as well. Now the downside to face-to-face meeting is scheduling.
The most face-to-face meetings I had in a week? 25. Obviously, I had some serious scheduling mojo to get that many in a week and not be racing between meetings (70 mph is only kind-of-racing).
The upside to phone calls that gain greater exposure to the market, as you can easily reach more than 25 networking contacts in a week. Also, a phone call can precede or lead to a meeting later on.
While a call may not build as strong of a connection, do not underestimate the benefit of greater exposure, especially when you hear about a possibility.
No matter whether you meet someone by phone or in-person, the preparation work to get ready for the meeting remains the same.
If you do make a call, you will need to follow up more often to establish a reason for that person to remember you beyond the ‘4 week window’.
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