Managing The Group: First Impressions at an LLL Display

• Published in: Leaven (Franklin Park, Ill.) Vol. 35; no. 4; p. 86
• Main Author: Bulger, Paulette
• Format: Magazine Article
• Language: English
• Published: Schaumburg La Leche League International, Inc 30.09.1999
• Subjects: Babies; Births; Breastfeeding & lactation; Families & family life; Households; Nonprofit organizations; Obstetrics; Organizations; Philosophy
• ISSN: 8750-2011

At a third table, the people are also busy. But one of them looks up, catches your eye, smiles and says, "I'll be with you shortly." In a few minutes, after you've had time to look at the materials, she approaches you and says, "Hello. How are you enjoying the displays?" After a minute or two of small talk, she asks you if you'd like to know more about her company's product. Be Interested. Establish rapport with the visitor before you share information. Make a comment that shows you are paying attention to the visitor. "How old is your baby?" "How are you enjoying the event?" "When are you due?" Ask questions that require more than a yes or no answer to keep the conversation flowing. Be Available. Try to have the display staffed at all times. Remember, although a Leader Applicant can work with you at the display, she should not be put in a position where she may appear to represent LLL; only an accredited Leader can do that. If you are busy, try at least to establish eye contact with any visitors who seem to be waiting to speak with you. Say "I'll be with you shortly," so they know you have seen them. If you have to take a short break, leave a large note on the table giving the time you will return. Note a specific time rather than "Back in 30 minutes" since visitors will not know when during the 30 minutes they are reading the note.