| Receptions are often referred to as the | | | | 5. Speak in a calm, low tone of voice. Don't get |
| gatekeepers, but it might be a better idea to | | | | impatient or angry. This will never help you get an |
| think of them as the Director of First Impressions. | | | | appointment. |
| You may think the receptionist isn't as important | | | | 6. Keep your ears open for anything you hear the |
| as your client, but remember - she isn't called the | | | | receptionist say about your prospect or about the |
| gatekeeper for nothing. In many smaller | | | | company. This can be very handy when you |
| companies, the gatekeeper may be the wife, | | | | finally get to meet your prospect. |
| sister or cousin of your prospect. | | | | 7. When you get the receptionist's attention, |
| The receptionist has direct contact with the | | | | present your business card in a careful, polite |
| decision maker you want to see. She can be a | | | | way. Present it the way the Japanese do, holding |
| great help to you if you make a positive first | | | | out the card in front of you so she can read your |
| impression. She will also convey a negative first | | | | name. It will help her announce you to her boss, |
| impression if you are rude or impatient. | | | | and she'll be impressed by your polite manner. |
| Here are some tips to help you impress the | | | | When you make this positive impression, you are |
| gatekeeper. | | | | more likely to get a few moments with your |
| 1. Check how busy she is. If the phones are | | | | client. |
| ringing off the hook and she seems frazzled, wait | | | | The next time you encounter a receptionist or |
| until it slows down. You'll gain her respect and | | | | gatekeeper, take those few extra moments to |
| gratitude by not overloading her at a busy time. | | | | impress her with your polite manner and your |
| 2. Be clear and concise. Don't overwhelm her with | | | | business card etiquette. It won't cost you a cent, |
| details. Just tell her who you want to see. | | | | and you are more likely to get an appointment. |
| 3. Don't launch into your presentation of your | | | | There's nothing to lose, and everything to gain. |
| product or service. She really doesn't care. | | | | You are invited to use these tips to make a great |
| 4. Be extra polite. Always be cordial and friendly, | | | | impression with the gatekeeper. |
| in a business-like manner. | | | | |