Business meetings are of utmost importance, to the point that even the smallest mistake can cause the deal to be called off. No matter how well prepared you may be or how detailed your offer presentation is, nothing good will come of it if the other party is in a bad mood due to your actions or other factors. To help you close the meeting on a positive note, here are some unspoken rules that you need to observe during this crucial event:
Choose the Right Location
Many variables are involved when talking about the perfect setting for your business meeting, but generally speaking, you’d want a place that exudes elegance and professionalism. This helps create a positive first impression with your investor or client and at the same time sets the right atmosphere to aid you when presenting. The price must be affordable for both sides, no matter who’s hosting. Accessibility is also a factor, so choose from one of Seattle’s many high-quality meeting venues.
Be Punctual
Arriving late at the designated meeting place, even for a few minutes, will not bode well for you. Time is of value to your clientele, and you don’t want to waste it, lest you want to risk your proposal’s success as well. Promptness and punctuality are some of the keys to a successful business meeting. Since everyone is on a tight schedule, you must begin and end on time. If time runs short, and you still have a lot to discuss, then you can ask to arrange another meeting date.
Get Straight to the Point
While it’s nice to exchange pleasantries and engage in small talk, going out of topic is unacceptable. You need to deliver your intended message as soon as possible and stick to the meeting’s agenda as much as you can. You can still have a bit of light and off-topic exchanges from time to time, but don’t veer away from the subject for too long. Keeping to a list of objectives to tackle during the meeting is a great idea and will help you cover every subject within the time frame.
Pay Attention to Whoever Is Speaking
You’re not the only one who’s going to do the talking. There’ll be times when the client will interject whenever they have questions or if they have other matters they wish to discuss. If that’s the case, make sure to be as attentive as they were when you were speaking earlier. Not only is this a sign of respect; you’ll also be better able to address any concerns that they may have. Giving them accurate answers to their queries is as important as your sales pitch, so keep that in mind.
The people you meet have out of their way to conduct business with you outside of their offices, so show your gratitude by observing proper etiquette. Being professional inspires confidence in your clients and builds trust, leading to a successful partnership. All you need to do is to follow these rules, and you can expect them to put their signature on the contract you drafted.
