Hello again, guys! Hanging in there?

This may be a naive question, but I decided to run it by you anyway.
I hope, you remember that I have never been in business for myself before. And as I am trying to get the ball rolling, questions inevitably arise.

One of my prospects set up a meeting with me (a month from now).
But not at his office. We are going to meet in a small pub/cafe, located in a busy and crowded area. I was just wondering if it's appropriate to have dinner with someone I don't know.

He is an executive Vice President of a small but fast growing PR firm in NYC. They have a nice website and it's a legitimate business. My question to you, is it common to meet your prospects (the ones you have never met) over lunch or dinner? I hope the schmuck doesn't have any ulterior motives. I sound very nice on the phone...This could've promted the whole thing. I am a copywriter, not a dating service. Or am I making too much of a big deal out of it??

Angie,

It's not uncommon to meet clients over lunch or dinner. Some people even fly to faraway places to meet their clients. It's all part of the biz. I'll be going out of town in a few months to do a project for a major client.

The good news is that you're meeting in a public place. If he has ulterior motives, you can leave on the spot.

Hopefully, you'll have nothing to worry about, and this will lead to an exciting assignment.

Good luck, and best wishes for a successful future!

Deb

Angie...I've met a few first time clients (as prospects) for lunch. It's pretty comfortable and they pick up the tab.

I don't do this anymore though...because I have a different way of prospecting now--very procedural and would not lend itself to lunch or chit chat.

hey....when did I become a senior member? I just joined last week!

Deb and Suzanne:

Thank you for addressing my concerns.
You are right. I got nothing to lose, it's a public place and he will probably pick up the tab. I don't mind discussing business-related issues over dinner.
And thank you for wishing me luck.

PS: I should have said "prompted" not "promted". A copywriter should always double-check her/his writing. Well, I am not perfect. Never will be.

Angie

I know it's pretty cool ay! look at me expert! That just cracks me up!!!

Well done Angie

Make sure you prepare well, what questions you need to ask, take list of fee's for different projects, note pad etc. I am sure the others can add to this!!! It's not my area of knowledge as yet.

Meanwhile whether you be married/engaged or not, may help you to wear a ring on your wedding finger, incase he does get any ideas and have yourself a fictional fiance!

I've had job interviews in bars/restaurants, sometimes it is because their office does not lend itself well to a business meeting. Or simply because the only free time they have is lunch time!


It's less formal, more relaxed. A break from the office for them and a huge excuse to eat out at the companys expense (all tax deductable).

Good luck.

Not that I am proud of it, but I have met with clients and business partners -- to make deals -- in some of the seediest of places.

Parties, Strip Clubs, Caberes, etc.

Detroit Lions games...

You go where the client wants to go, UNLESS said places violates your moral values...

Yeah, I am definitely a panic-monger.

I should probably add this definition to my business card. Just to make sure people will treat me gently. Is there a forum for panic-stricken entrepreneurs?? I am signing up the minute (no, the second !) I discover one. Or maybe this should become a spinoff. Let's say "Copywriters who are in panic before the assignment." or "5 Ways to Overcome a Panic Attack when a client calls." Something to that effect...
I think some of my posts will turn people into best-selling authors.

Angie

lol, yeh!

You'll be fine. As soon as you've had a bit of experience you'll relax and go with the flow, or maybe you won't. But as long as you are always enjoying what you do, it doesn't matter.

I remember my first time doing showroom sales. First client that popped in the showroom and I balsed it up gigantically. I fluffed all my words, blushed, wobbled. Needless to say they didn't stay long!