A few colleagues from my speech group invited me to a business meeting. The members had started this new group to focus on giving business presentations and providing feedback. Business presentations tend to be more persuasive and usually include an offer and a call-to-action.
There were twelve of us seated around a conference table with a whiteboard in front and a digital camera in the rear. One member was responsible for bringing the snacks and another was responsible for reserving the room. Although there were no dress requirements, someone would have made a comment if I came in wearing a t-shirt and shorts.
One segment of the meeting I liked was the reworking of a member's elevator speech or personal pitch. This part resembled a mastermind session where everyone contributed ideas on improving a certain member's blurb when asked, "What do you do?" The creative juices began flowing and energizing the room.
It was a gainful meeting designed to benefit each of the members in their business and personal pursuits. Any one of my colleagues could test a new business strategy or include, or edit a useful point for a presentation. For business owners, this has to be one of the most valuable types of meetings for moving your business forward.
If you're thinking about starting a business group and you already have interested parties, here are seven steps to get you going fast:
1) Organizing. This is the granddaddy of them all. Through voicemail, email, text messaging, social media and other avenues you can create a buzz for your next meeting. Make your event sound exciting and something everyone will look forward to in your message.
Post your venue with date, time and directions. Make a list of who is responsible for what. Share the meeting agenda and include contact information.
2) Leading. Someone should be in charge of running your meeting and watching the clock. You can alternate this position each time. While a typical meeting tends to stray off course, this person keeps everyone on track and on focus.
3) Group business. Basically these are your announcements, reports and pertinent news. This should be short and sweet and straight to the point. There's nothing sexy about group business but it's vitally important to handle this in a professional manner. You wouldn't want anyone to be left in the dark.
4) Guest comments. Where would any group be without guests? They inject new life and a fresh perspective into your meeting. Honor them with a moment of your time.
5) Presentation. This is the main attraction. All steps lead to this climax. It's the reason behind the buzz. Give the presenter your full attention and appreciation.
6) Assignments. Your meeting is actually the launching pad for the next one. Keep the positive momentum flowing with either pre-assigned positions or asking for volunteers. If the attendees believe your meeting is valuable - you 'd have members jockeying to fill those roles instantly.
7) Conclusion and final thoughts. It's important to end on a positive note. The close could be something humorous, inspiring or thought-provoking. Or it could be a success testimony. You'd want your colleagues to get back to business with a smile on their face and an extra spring in their step.
Starting and running your business group can be one of the most fulfilling and rewarding actions you take for your personal growth. You get to tap the exponential power of multiple minds that can generate profitable ideas that benefit all parties involved. And isn't being in business supposed to be beneficial to all parties involved?
Tommy Yan helps business owners and entrepreneurs make more money through direct response marketing. He publishes Tommy's Tease weekly e-zine to inspire people to succeed in business and personal growth. Get your free subscription today at www.TommyYan.com.
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