Breakfast Meeting

Wednesday, January 28, 2003 - 8:00 to 9:30 AM

Location: Michael’s Diner, Route 1, Lawrenceville, NJ (across from Mrs. G’s) 609-530-1676
MapQuest Directions

Topic: Strategic Business Planning

Cost: Attendance at the meetings is free, but remember to bring cash to cover the cost of your breakfast.

These meetings are held bi-monthly at varying locations to make them convenient for all members. Prior meetings were well attended, and feedback continues to be positive. The informal setting invites open discussion of the topic and networking in general.

Coordinators: To register, contact Liz Scafa by Monday, January 26 by phone (609-844-7920) or email elizabeth.Scafa@morganstanley.com.

November Breakfast Meeting Summary

The bi-monthly Mercer Chapter Breakfast Meeting was held at the Princetonian Diner and was well attended. The topic “Managing Client Relationships” stimulated a lively discussion of ideas that relate to all business owners and an exchange of ideas that are specific to individual issues that were raised.

Some issues that were discussed included:
- How do we differentiate ourselves and our services?
- How do we keep clients happy?
- What is the appropriate business/personal mix for each relationship?
- How and when should we fire a client?
- How do we learn what our clients’ true needs are?

These questions led individuals to recognize some actions they can take immediately that could improve their existing client relationships. Specifically:
- Conduct an independent survey of top clients to get a better understanding of what they expect vs. what they are receiving.
- Schedule regular interactions with clients, either through a newsletter or some other form of communication.
- Call a specific number of clients per day – be disciplined to do it!
- Make sure clients are aware of all the services and products you offer.

As a follow up to the discussion, participants were interested to see some of the literature used by business owners to keep in touch with their clients. If you have anything to share, please bring it to the next meeting. We’ll exchange ideas during the first few minutes before getting started on the regular program.

Suggestions for future Breakfast Meeting topic are always welcome. Please send your suggestions to Liz Scafa, Breakfast Meeting Coordinator, at 609-844-7920 or elizabeth.scafa@morganstanley.com. Prior topics covered were:
- Managing Client Relationships
- Developing and Using an Effective Mailing List
- Developing a Thank You Program
- Identifying Your Ideal Client

Regular Breakfast Meetings are held on the fourth Wednesday of alternating months (the November meeting did not follow this pattern because of the Thanksgiving holiday).