Part 1 of this article concentrated on the impact of lateness on your state of mind and composure; in this part we’ll look at two other reasons for being early for meetings.

3. A 10 minute planning session will increase your chances of success from a meeting. 10 minutes of quiet reflection in your car or in a nearby cafe before a meeting is a great way to focus on what you would like to get from the meeting and what you have to offer. This mental breathing space is also a great way to regain the calm and good spirits which delayed trains, motorway tail backs or a battle with the weather can so easily erode.

4. Soak up the atmosphere. You won’t want to arrive at the actual destination for a meeting 10-15 minutes early (this puts pressure on whoever you are meeting) so most of this early-time will be spent planning in your car, or near the venue.

However, arriving at your destination a few minutes early or at the very least promptly can be a vital part of getting to know the organisation you are visiting. Depending on the line of business you are in, there are all sorts of vital information you can glean whilst you are waiting for a meeting to start: Observe the behaviour and interaction of the people you meet, soak up the atmosphere and culture of the organisation, read the literature they provide for visitors, look at who they share an office with; all of this information can be useful in helping you understand the strengths, challenges and approach of the people you’ll be meeting.

We’d love to hear from you on your views on lateness, promptness and meeting preparation. What is the most useful thing you’ve observed or read whilst waiting for a meeting?