Where you hold a client meeting can make a lot of difference. When you get the venue right, it ensures the client is relaxed and the meeting achieves its objectives. On the flip side, the wrong venue can make the client uncomfortable and lead to poor decision-making.
Make sure the meeting place you choose is convenient for the client. See that he or she does not need to go a long distance, that the ambience is good. Check everything about the venue—seating arrangement, lighting, noise level, ventilation. This will make your client feel comfortable and focus on quality business discussion. However, each place comes with its own pros and cons. Here are a few places, which you can consider for your next client meeting:
- Coffee shops: If you are already familiar with the client, have some minimal work to be taken care of or want a relaxed and friendly environment, coffee shops are an ideal place to go to. Many coffee shops offer Wi-Fi access, which makes it easy to get online and access important information. Deepali Sen, Srujan Financial Advisors, says, “I find coffee shops convenient when I want a relaxed ambiance. Also, it’s a neutral place when the client isn’t willing to travel much.”
Of course, there is a downside to this as it can be crowded and your client might feel hesitant to discuss financial matters openly. Not to mention, it can get noisy and distracting, with customers coming in and going out.
- Restaurants: Meeting a client in a restaurant is also a viable option. Not only can you discuss important matters here, discussing them over food also lightens the mood. This means your chances of persuading your client or investor to agree to certain terms and conditions, for example, will be greater.
However, you need to rule out this option if you are meeting a client for the first time as the social aspect of dining can make the person feel awkward.
- Your office: Many IFAs like conducting meetings at their own office. One main advantage of holding the meeting in your office is that your clients get to see what your office looks like. The client can also get to meet other members of your team. This helps to build credibility about your standing as an advisor.
Suresh Sadagopan, of Ladder7 Financial Advisories, says: “I prefer meeting clients in my own office as I am in control of all the elements there and can conduct a meeting more privately and undisturbed. Additionally, the quality of meeting will also be good and you are in a better position to impress clients.”
- Client’s office: Many of your clients like SME owners, HNIs, doctors, small business owners would want to meet at their office. Visiting them at their office can communicate that you are sensitive to the needs of your client.
Kavitha Menon, of Probitus Wealth, says: “I generally meet HNI clients at their office. I prefer it because clients are more comfortable at their work place and there is privacy. Also, the paper work is easier as documents are accessible.”
- Client’s home: Finally, you can visit them at their residence. It can help you observe them in their own settings and understand them better as they will be more comfortable.
Another advantage of meeting them at their place is interaction with family members. This will give you an insight into the needs and aspirations of all members. By staying in close contact with the family as a whole, you can strengthen your relationship with your clients.
