A few weeks ago, a potential consultant dropped by the office wanting to introduce himself and his work.
Him: “Good morning. I’m so-and-so. I have a meeting with so-and-so. Do you have something I can plug into the TV and access Dropbox with? I want to be able to show my work.”
Me: “Sure. I’ll be able to help you with that.”
My boss came into the conference room at this point, shut the door, and started the meeting. I went back to my desk and proceeded to unplug my laptop for this person to use. Figured I could sacrifice an hour of not working, right? As I was about to unplug my first cable, I thought, “Why should I give up my laptop when this person is clearly not prepared for this meeting?” So, I did nothing.
The meeting moved along and there was no further mention of needing a device to look at work samples.
Side Note: I work in a visual profession. Not bringing visual items to look over = a massive mistake.
Got me thinking that when you come for a meeting, you need to be prepared. You need to bring your own device to showcase your own work; need to bring work that makes you look amazing. Being prepared puts a spotlight on the fact that you value the other person’s time and understand what is needed to put your best foot forward.
Scar, in the Lion King, sang it best, “Be prepared!”
