Every business conversation is also a meeting.
And so, approach each with the same consideration that you would bring to a larger project.
For example,
1) Know the goal. Spend a moment to write out the result that you want to have at the end of the conversation.
2) Check with the other person. Agree on logistics and (if appropriate) exchange each other's goals for the conversation.
3) Plan an agenda. This will most likely be a list of the issues that you want to discuss. Then support this plan with questions that direct the conversation toward the results that you want.
4) Bring paper to take notes. This lets you record the results of the conversation.
5) Issue minutes. In some cases, it may be appropriate to send the other person a note summarizing the decisions and agreements made during the conversation.
Of course, the amount of detail will depend upon the nature of the conversation. Some will be more informal than others.
Key Point: Even small events can benefit from basic planning principles.
Much success,
Steve Kaye
714-528-1300
Author, Speaker, IAF Certified Professional Facilitator
Wish you the best,
Steve Kaye
Professional Speaker and Photographer
Inspiring Leaders Since 1992
See: Steve’s Web Site
(Dozens of articles, more than 600 photos, and 157 blog posts)