Chapter 36
Before an Event
Would you walk into a meeting with a client unprepared? Of course not. You would risk looking unorganized, while wasting time for both of you. Preparation for a business function should be given the same respect.
Regardless of the time of day or how you choose to fill your hours, the value of your time remains constant. An hour spent in a boardroom costs you the same amount as an hour spent at a function. Why wouldn't you give the same consideration to business functions as you do to time spent in company meetings? When you network, you are engaging in an equally important business activity.
This doesn't mean that for every function you'll have to write a full report, create an agenda, consider objectives, and analyze anticipated outcomes. However, you should at least formulate some thoughts as to the event's purpose and have a game plan for what you're going to do when you're there.
Before you go to a function, determine your intention for attending the event and do your pre-event homework. Visit the organization's website. Who is on the board? Who is sponsoring the event? Is anyone being honored? Who will likely attend? Who is the host? Why are you going? What is your intention? How does this event fit with your focus board? (See Chapter 63: Finding Your Focus.) What is the dress code? Who do you hope to meet? What is the purpose of the event?
Check the agenda. When is the best time to arrive? When your time is limited, the priority for your attendance ...
