Quote:
Originally Posted by Jean-Paul
Your physical presence must be a first. Forget the phone call. Whoever sees you first will take their impression to the rest of the group and lay the groundwork for you. Walk into the office with your bio in hand. Make sure you look good (professional... no muscle shirts. Biz casual), smell good, and disarm them with a sincere smile.
Every single nuance of your first impression is important to nail down before you even walk in the door. Have your "elevator speech" ready, which means, have a one minute or less explanation for why you are dropping in, but you are only scoping them out for now. Even if it's a non-board member who first meets you (like a receptionist or something), you have to realize that that person is the gate keeper, and his/her opinion of you will make or break the deal.
Make sure that you don't leave without some crucial intel too. Grab business cards or get names and emails of board members. Find out when they meet and how often. Mention that you would love to do a "free" 15 minute fitness segment in their next meeting so they can get an opportunity to learn about nutrition/fitness.
Don't get in a rush. You are the professional. After you knock them down with your first impressions from your initial contacts, follow up with a thank you via email, but don't pester them. Let them approach you. If they feel like it's their idea they will give you the keys to the kingdom. If they don't, they will want something from you if they even let you in at all.
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Great advice that goes with my instincts, which is to say in person is better than the phone. I will make sure to dress and act professional and the speaking thing is a great idea, as that's one of my strong points. Great advice. Thanks JP! Anyone else can chime in as well if you have any more ideas!