Business 101: Business Meeting Dos and Don'ts

As creatives, we spend so much time focusing on our talent, that we often overlook the importance of the business. Yes, there are managers and attorneys and agents to handle all of that for you, but that does not give us a license to walk this journey in ignorance.

Some of you may have read the title of this post and thought to yourself why would I pick such a topic to write about. But I’ve been around more than enough artists to know that meeting etiquette is not common sense to all. So..... I’ve created a list of my top five business meeting dos and don‘ts.

Remember this folks......One business meeting can change your life.

Do......

1. Show up at least 20 minutes early. Give yourself time to find parking or the exact meeting location, scope out the environment, and clear your head before the meeting starts. It also makes for a good and lasting impression.

2. Google and do your homework on all meeting attendees. Know who you’re in a room with. You never know..... you may be linked somehow or share similar interests and that could work out in your favor.

3. Prepare any discussion points or questions in advance of the meeting. Never underestimate the power of preparation. Meetings can be uncomfortable or even intimidating. The better prepared you are, the more comfortable you will be.

4. Pay attention at all times. You don’t want to miss any important details or appear unprofessional. Focus.

5. Be prepared to showcase your talent on the spot. Let us not forget what you‘re there for. Be ready to sell your brand or business. Be ready to put on a show. This could be the opportunity that changes your life forever.

Don't......

1. Be late. This doesn’t show well on your character or level of professionalism. Time is money. Punctuality shows that you value both.

2. Play with or look at your phone. Looking at your phone gives the impression that you’d rather be somewhere else. So if there’s an opportunity on the table, you could very well miss out.

3. Get over emotional. Respect what others have to say. You don’t have to agree but self-control is important and is a clear indication to others that you can handle pressure and conflict. No one wants to do business with a hot head that‘s always flying off the deep end.

4. Speak when others are talking. Don’t over talk others. Listen and wait your turn to speak. You will want others to do the same when it’s your time to speak.

5. Bring an entourage. Only bring members of your staff or team that will add value to the discussion or whose job it is to be there. Everyone in your circle, family and friends included, should not be privy to your business dealings.

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