henry0 - 12:29 pm on May 14, 2008 (gmt 0)

I used to be a director of membership with BNI
and used to recommend it (here)
Why “used to”: after a couple of years I found that BNI and Chambers are sadly enough ruled by the sempiternal real estates, banks, insurance and attorneys
the rest (us for example!) share leftovers
However I really love the idea of going a few steps on your own and building a demo
Let’s face it, real cold calls are a pain for both end users…
But if you really want to:
Your goal is to obtain an appointment
First do your homework, know the biz you call upon
Ask the watch-dog/secretary/door-keeper a question (don’t ask yet for a meeting) that only the person you want to meet with could answer so she/he has to call that person and put you through, then do your dog and pony show, act in such a way that your interlocutor will be enclined to meet with you and will be willing to accept a meeting.

Do not phone call, go to the place.