Not every client conversation needs an agenda

This week peakleap went to Oktoberfest!

We started the evening with a little competition at the funfair, where somehow a unicorn and a hippo joined us. After that we made our way to Kufflers Weinzelt.

We deliberately kept the group small. Just a few people we usually see through the screen now enjoying a proper Wiesn evening together. What I liked most about it was how different conversations feel when nobody has an agenda, but just time to actually talk. 

And of course this reminded me of business development somehow ;)

Strong client relationships are built through good work, of course. But they also grow in the conversations around it. The moments where you learn what someone is thinking about, what is changing in their world, or simply get to know them beyond the current matter. 

One dinner might not manufacture trust immediately, but it gives you a starting point. 

Here is a simple thing to do this month:

• Think of one client, former colleague, or contact you value
• Invite them for something that has no immediate commercial agenda attached to it – coffee, lunch, an event you might enjoy together

But remember that not every relationship touchpoint needs to produce an opportunity immediately. Sometimes its value is simply making the next conversation easier. 

Best, 
Anja Kreutzahler
CEO & Founder of peakleap

P.S. The unicorn made it home safely. The hippo situation is still under negotiation ;)