Summer is finally here! It’s a time to take a break from business as usual, kick back, and enjoy the longer days, warmer weather, and time outdoors. For me, that outdoor time is on the golf course. But that doesn’t mean leaving business behind. In fact, just the opposite!
Golf has many lessons to teach about business communication that can serve us well throughout the year. Over these next weeks of summer, we’ll explore some of these lessons and practice them together. The goal is lower scores now, and business better than usual in September. Are you ready to play?
Regardless of your summer pastime, being prepared will make the experience less stressful and more enjoyable.
For golf, that means:
- Having the right equipment ready and available when you get to the course: clubs, balls, golf shoes, etc.
- Dressing appropriately.
On the golf course, that means a collared shirt and no jeans or cut-off shorts. - Being on time!
For golf, that’s arriving at least 20 minutes prior to your tee time.
In business, this translates to:
- Having the materials (notes, information) you need easily accessible for a meeting or event.
- Dressing appropriately.
Care in your appearance indicates you value the person you’re meeting with. - Being on time!
Arrive a minimum of 10 minutes early for in-person meetings, and 5-10 minutes early for virtual meetings. Don’t let traffic or technology be your excuse for tardiness.
Bonus tip:
New research shows that “meeting lateness is negatively related to both meeting satisfaction and effectiveness.” (1)
Time for a business checkup!
- Has complacency reduced the efficiency of your presentations?
- Is your consideration of your appearance lax?
- Does meeting lateness undermine the meetings for you or your team?
With preparation and planning, you can overcome these factors to achieve better meeting satisfaction and effectiveness. Contact us to learn more.
(1) https://www.researchgate.net/publication/323996713_Let%27s_get_this_meeting_started_Meeting_lateness_and_actual_meeting_outcomes
