As many of you know, I am a Girl Scout leader. Our motto is "be prepared. Recently, I have been noticing that many adults, even former scouts, have forgotten this message.
When you have an important meeting scheduled, it makes sense to prepare.
1. Know your objectives for the meeting. Why are you attending? What do you hope to gain?
2. Know the objectives of the other participants. Why are THEY attending? What do THEY hope to gain?
3. If you are driving the meeting–have an agenda set, and maybe even send around prior to the meeting, so others can be prepared too.
4. If you are not driving the meeting, make sure you anticipate the agenda (if it is not sent to you–you should ask for it in advance)
5. Anticipate the questions you may be asked, and prepare your answer. For example, most sales calls usually center on the following:
- What can we do for you
- What can you do for us
- Tell us about yourself and why we should work together
In marketing, preparation is critical–anticipating what your audience expects, needs and desires, so you can delight them. So pull out your old Scouting Handbook–there are plenty of lessons that are still relevant today.
