You’ll remember my public debate about how much time I should set aside to meet with anyone?

My standard is 30 mins.

Rasul successfully pitched me on 1 hour and I posted on it in “How to get a Meeting with anybody.”

Then, Rasul’s lobby came at me full force and a great discussion ensued in the comments section.

More importantly, though, Rasul came ready.

He brought his “A” game.

Not that I’m such a tough customer, but he reinforced his global microbrand and the shouts of his personal ‘raving fans’ when he had the agenda ready, drove us through it, and made it so much fun, we spoke for an hour and a half.

From him, I really learned (or should I say ‘it was reinforced’) about how to make a great impression.

1. He was punctual (always a pet peeve of mine)
2. He’d done his homework.
3. He came with three suggestions for people I should meet. (That got my attention).
4. And then, when all was said and done, he followed up…quickly.

What was the resulting impression on me?

I owed him one…or more.

So, since then, he’s been top of mind.

I’ve introduced him to one potentially valuable contact as well as offered ideas for collaboration.

Well planned and well executed.

I guess it’s easy when you’re so busy to walk into a meeting less than fully prepared, but it’s an attention economy, right? And the person at the table across from you can easily tune you out…no matter what the nature of the discussion.

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