Leave a lasting impression: Tips for an effective client meeting
When meeting with a client, some strategies for an organized, well-delivered meeting are standard: be on time, prepared, well-mannered, confident, etc. Once you have all those fundamental elements covered, the next step is to determine ways to make the meeting effective and memorable.
First it is important to have a set agenda. An effective agenda lays out the main points that will be discussed during the meeting and it also gives an approximate end time. The agenda serves as a guide to both the presenter and the client. Keep it short, however. You don’t want your client reading while someone is presenting. Since time is always of the essence, an approximate end time keeps clients from watching the clock and keeps their attention on the presenter. Follow the agenda, but keep it flexible. Small talk helps build rapport and can add to the quality of a face-to-face meeting. Flexibility also leaves room for new and unexpected dialogue.
A great way to create a memorable meeting is to make it experiential. Pretend it’s a trade show exhibit. Display and demonstrate the product to the client. Teach them new techniques and terminologies that may come with the product or service. The interaction can generate meaningful observations and inquiries. Giving clients a better understanding of the product can boost their overall confidence in the product and its brand.
Another strategy is to present the product in the form of a case study. First identify the problem or area of need. Walk the client through the steps toward solving the problem. Next, present the product or service as the solution to the problem. Focus on what the product can do and how it will meet objectives. Lastly, tell the clients the expected results, but only present results that can be delivered. Many professors use case studies to educate students. It is a clear and effective way to illustrate the problem at hand and the possible solutions.
Following these tips can make an impression on a client. To go the extra mile and really leave a lasting impression, give the client a corporate gift that they can take with them. Items such as technology pens or executive game sets imprinted with the brand logo or message remind clients of the business with every use! Add a card that thanks the client for attending the meeting and provides contact information to set up a second meeting.
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