Here are ten tips I’ve picked up to make my meetings more productive:
One: Start each meeting by stating the purpose for meeting – sets the table for the whole meeting
Two: Do a time check after you state the purpose – so you know how much time you have
Three: Save the idle chit-chat to the end, they have agreed to meet and help – use the time wisely
Four: Start with how you can help them – to show this is a true networking meeting
Five: Do your homework – try to have 2-3 contacts that may help them
Six: Keep your pitch short – treat it like a commercial. Get them interested to learn more
Seven: Use a Marketing plan – a great tool to help express the role you seek
Eight: You take all the notes – confirm the actions each of you agreed to – starting with your own
Nine: They pick up the Blackberry or close their notebook – the meeting is done. Say thanks and close it down.
Ten: Send the follow-up note within 48 hours. Put your name in the e-mail title – they will remember your name.
Nothing too fancy here – but helped me get loads of connections.
Good luck today!
Mark Richards
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