Making a good first impression can make or break the outcome of a potential business deal. In my last two articles, First Impressions – Welcome To My Workplace and Your Guest Has Arrived I shared various strategies you can implement to make sure you make a good first impression. Once your guest has arrived and the meeting has come to a close it’s not over yet. Even if you think you sealed the deal, there are a few more things you can do to be sure they will do business with you.
1. Clarify the next step. You want to make sure both you and your guest and clear as to what will happen next. You do not want any misunderstandings to occur. They may return home and be waiting for you to provide information. At the same time, you are waiting for them to provide you information. Conduct a quick summary or review of key points and tasks and clarify all expectations.
2. Before they go ask if they need anything. Make them feel comfortable, as they may have a long journey home and would like to use the restroom before they depart. Or, they may need to make a quick phone call back to the office or someone who is awaiting their return.
3. Assist your guest with getting to their next destination. They may be unfamiliar with the area and not sure of the best way to their next destination. Prior to the meeting, you should have verified if they needed transportation back to their hotel, airport or other destination. If necessary, assist them by scheduling a taxi or connecting with Uber.
4. Walk with them to the front door or exit. Instead of having your guest wander off to find their own way out of the building, walk with them to the door. This will avoid the frustration of them becoming lost. You can also provide some last minute positive thoughts for them to focus on. Even if it about something social, they will attribute the smile they have to the meeting with you.
5. Follow up. This is where many business owners go wrong. They do not follow up. Send an email or call to thank them for coming to visit. Follow up on any items that were discussed and answer any questions they may have.
Face to face meetings are still a valuable opportunity to show your clients you care and are worth doing business with. If you take just a few extra steps to make a great first impression, you will stand above the competition and be rewarded with a growing and profitable business.
If you would like to learn more strategies to enhance your work environment and leadership skills, please email me at cowens@infinitycoaching.net or visit my website to see how we can work together.
