1. 5 Tips for Meeting with Potential Clients

2. Plan and Prepare Do your research on the company Put yourself in the client’s shoes Create an agenda

3. Set an Agenda It sets expectations It creates an orderly flow It helps everyone understand their roles Email the agenda to your client the day before so he/she knows what to expect

4. Make a Professional Impression Be your most courteous, polite and professional self Kick it up a notch with your attire Turn on the charm as soon as you walk in the door Show respect Bring in a portfolio of previous work

5. Take Notes Your main goal of the initial meeting is to listen to the client Be obvious when taking notes Pay attention

6. Send a Meeting Summary Also known as a contact report: Name of project Date of meeting Team members in attendance Bullet-point list of what was discussed Next steps: what will be accomplished next, who will do it, and when it will be finished

7. Closing The first meeting with a client sets the tone for the beginning of one of your first professional relationships. Make sure that you prepare well for the first meeting and more importantly, keep the momentum with all of your meetings.