Preparation

Review your event checklist and follow it carefully. Are you dressed appropriately? Is your hair currently styled, neat and up to date? Are your nails groomed? If you were to look at yourself as a stranger, what is the first impression would you have?

I’m amazed at how many people do not come with ample crisp, clean business cards for every member. If you have a brochure, plan to have about 20 but don’t had out brochures unless you are asked for them. Be prepared for twice as many as you have given away at previous times. You don’t want to have anyone feel left out.

Remember that the purpose of attending is to get to know other professionals and become known for who you are. People don’t generally act judgemental, but you can eliminate the majority of any negative responses by being suitably prepared. So use this to your advantage. The more you think about what you’re going to say and then say it a leads meeting, the more comfortable you will become.