Years ago I had a meeting with a lawyer-turned-entrepreneur, and he made an interesting comment I still find myself thinking about: his preferred place for informal business meetings was hotel lobbies. (Looking back he probably got the idea from this NYT article!) There are obvious advantages to this — they’re nice, public spaces; they usually … Read More about The Best Places to Meet Up with Prospective Clients (Other than Your Office or Theirs)
Finding and Joining Professional Organizations
How do you find out about professional organizations that could be a good fit for you and your goals? How do you decide which organizations to join, whether for networking in your niche, business development/new clients, or just better opportunities? Ladies, what are your best tips for finding worthwhile professional organizations? Psst: We’ve also looked at volunteering and … Read More about Finding and Joining Professional Organizations
When Your Client Hits On You: How to Deal with Unwanted Sexual Advances at Work
How should you handle it when your client hits on you? We got an emergency email from reader K, who is getting a bit uncomfortable with a prospective customer and his unwanted sexual advances at work — the client asked her out! I am a [physical product that attaches to buildings*] sales woman. During intermittent conversation with … Read More about When Your Client Hits On You: How to Deal with Unwanted Sexual Advances at Work
Feeling Jealous of a Younger Colleague
What should you do if you’re feeling envious of a colleague who’s younger than you, seemingly unappreciative of the opportunity you’re giving her, and also — in your opinion — inappropriately flirty at networking events? Reader J wonders: I’m a 40 yr old business development manager at an engineering firm. I’ve formed a group of female colleagues that helps … Read More about Feeling Jealous of a Younger Colleague
Should You Say No to Sports at Work?
Your office is planning an athletic event, and you want to stay far, far away. Even if you’re worried about feeling awkward, should you go anyway to take advantage of the networking opportunities? How can you say NO to work-related sporting events, like golf and tennis outings, and what are you missing out on if you do? Reader B … Read More about Should You Say No to Sports at Work?
CRMs, Business Development Trackers, and Other Organizing Fun
How can you track business development efforts, beyond traditional CRM (customer relationship management) software programs? We’ve talked about how to build a book of business, but not how to organize those attempts. Here’s reader EJ’s question: I have accepted a new job that will involve less billable hours and more business development. I would like … Read More about CRMs, Business Development Trackers, and Other Organizing Fun
How to Build a Book of Business: Business Development Tips for Women
What are the best practices for business development? How do you build a book of business? Are there any especially great business development tips for women? Reader S, a new partner, wonders: I am starting at a new firm as a partner where there is a great deal of emphasis on client development. Its a … Read More about How to Build a Book of Business: Business Development Tips for Women