There comes a time in every business owner’s lives where they need to host a meeting that could affect the future of the company. Whether it’s investors you’re after, or you need to pitch some ideas to your fellow business partners, it’s imperative to get it right so that your business can continue to thrive. However, meetings can be daunting and it’s important to prepare wisely so that you can nail it on the head. Here’s some tips on how to prepare for your next big meeting.
Provide food
As you’re probably aware, meetings can last for hours and when this happens, energy levels begin to drop. Rather than risking losing the attention of your audience, provide food such as sandwiches, crisps, salad, and refreshing drinks so that they can pick as you’re talking. Also, providing food at a meeting is good etiquette and will earn you some much needed brownie points.
Hand out merchandise
You want people to remember who you are when the meeting has finished and more importantly, giving people something for nothing always helps win them over, especially if you’re hoping they will dip their hands in their pockets and invest in your company. Hand out merchandise such as pens, mugs, and t-shirts. Lanyards are also a great example of merchandise to give away, and you can buy them here.
Prepare a visual presentation
There’s nothing worse than being in a meeting and having to listen to the same person droning on for hours. Not only is it boring, but people tend to react more positively to visual aids. Prepare a visual presentation of what you’re trying to achieve so that you can pique your audience’s interest and also look super professional.
Dress to impress
If you’re looking to impress investors with your business then you’ll need to make them like you too. First impressions matter, and that’s why it’s important to dress smartly so that they can see you mean business. Pick out a nice suit or a dress to show that you’re as serious as they are about this meeting.
Pick a professional meeting room
Finally, as mentioned earlier meetings can go on for hours, and if you’re in a small and stuffy room you’re not going to win over any clients. Choose a meeting room with plenty of air and light and more importantly, one that looks professional. Doing this is sure to win over whoever you’re trying to impress and you can then further your business as planned.