Great guide from Matt Thomas on holding client meetings when running a home business

Great guide from Matt Thomas on holding client meetings when running a home business

Nothing says unprofessional quite like a sink full of plates or the sounds of arguing children. Can you really hold successful client meetings when your office is also your home? This guide outlines the best and worst places to have meetings when running a home-based business.

When you can, avoid holding meetings at home. Though views are changing, it's not uncommon for potential customers to view home business owners as 'not successful enough' to own office space. Obviously this is not the case, as there are a number of benefits to starting your business from home. But this opinion can still negatively affect your company, so think twice before inviting clients to your house

The ideal solution for most meetings is not to host at all, and offer to go to your client. Make sure, however, the travel costs don't outweigh the benefits of this choice. Would a conversation on the phone suffice?

Meetings at your home should be reserved for people you know well. Set up a designated space for your discussion, containing a comfortable place to talk, in a well lit, un-cluttered room. Ensure the location is quiet and you won't be distracted: consider holding the meeting when children are at school, and anyone else is at work.

Meeting clients outside the home

Fortunately, there are a multitude of alternative locations available to you. These range from those that don't cost a penny, to the downright expensive, meaning you can choose what works best for your client, and your budget.    

       

          Good places to hold business meetings include:

• Rent office space - Renting an office meeting room for the whole day or by the hour gives the benefit of privacy. Clients will also appreciate you've gone to the trouble of booking a serious, professional space to talk.

      

          Bad places to meet clients

• Pubs - First meetings, or those of particular importance, should never be held in a pub. It looks unprofessional, and can become stressful if anyone drinks too much. Pubs can be used for informal chats, but nothing more.
• A fast food restaurant - Not only will the smells and noise be distracting, but the location gives out a distinct message: "I have no money".
• Your bedroom - If your 'office' is also your bedroom, don't bring clients there. It will make people feel uncomfortable, especially if one or more of you have to resort to sitting on the bed.

              The golden rule

How you use the information in this guide all revolves around your knowledge of the client. Where are they going to be happiest? Ask them if they'd prefer a chat over lunch, or a cup of coffee. It's also up to you to decide which location will be appropriate for which type of meeting you're having. Is it an informal catch up, a sales pitch, a talk about collaboration, or a meeting to discuss existing business? Choosing the right location for different types of meeting is key to success.

MSE Meeting Rooms London is a central meeting venue, they understand the importance of space. They utilise space every day and whether you’re looking to teach, produce or listen they’ll give you the space to do it!

Visit http://www.msemeetingrooms.co.uk go check their venues and prices.