First impressions are especially important when a new client is involved. You want to show that you’re capable, knowledgeable, experienced, and able to deliver value. Here’s how to ensure that you put your best foot forward during that all-important first meeting.
Project an Air of Confidence
Confidence is key to building trust and achieving buy-in. If nerves are an issue, practice positive self-talk in a mirror or in a private setting before the meeting. Talk yourself up, take a deep breath, and adjust your posture so that it’s open and confident. When you get to your meeting, greet your client confidently and professionally, and speak slowly and with purpose. Wearing attire that makes you feel strong and authoritative can also help you elevate your professional persona.
Know Your Subject – and Your Client
Preparation is vital for starting a business relationship on the right foot. Don’t wing it. Research your topic extensively before your meeting, and make sure you have answers or solutions to any questions that might come up. Also, know your client, their business, and their needs so that you can tailor your meeting towards addressing them. Knowing where they’re coming from and what issues they’re dealing with will help you anticipate any questions and respond substantively. Take the time to build trust and rapport as well – this will help solidify your relationship around more than just business.
Come Prepared with Supporting Materials
Supporting materials such as printouts, models, or digital presentations show that you’ve invested time and resources into your meeting. They also help you guide the discussion, control the flow of information, and retain ownership over the meeting and its direction. Ensure that your materials are professionally designed, branded, and produced – and that they’re displayed in a way that shows them in their best light. Troubleshoot any possible tech issues beforehand so that you’re not caught off guard. Fully equipped meeting rooms like the ones at District Offices come with plug and play technology providing an easy setup process.
Host Your Meeting in a Professional Space
Environment matters. Hosting meetings at a coffee shop or your home office can work in a pinch, but neither is ideal for kicking off a new relationship with a high-powered client. That’s where ready-made spaces like the meeting rooms at District Offices come in. Stylishly appointed and equipped with the latest in technology and amenities, they’ll immediately evoke an air of professionalism and success. You can only make a first impression once, so make sure your setting is working for you – not against you.
Book a District Offices Space for Your Next Meeting
District Offices provides a variety of professional meeting spaces in D.C.’s most sought-after areas. From high-end private offices to tech-forward board and meeting rooms, we can ensure that your next meeting happens in the elevated environment your work – and clients – deserve. For information about reserving one of our meeting spaces or claiming a desk at one of our highly regarded addresses, get in touch today.
