How to use the briefcase technique?

The Briefcase Technique is an effective strategy to impress potential employers or clients by demonstrating your preparedness and initiative during meetings. Here's how to use it:

1. Research: Before the meeting, thoroughly research the company, the team, and the person you're meeting with. Understand their goals, strengths, and, most importantly, their challenges and gaps.

2. Prepare a Proposal: Develop a brief proposal, not on your qualifications, but on how you specifically would address the company's challenges. This proposal should outline projects and tasks that suit their needs, how long these projects would take, and how they align with the company's objectives.

3. Presentation During the Meeting: During the meeting, when discussions about roles or compensation start to surface, introduce your proposal. For example, instead of jumping right into salary talks, you could say, "Actually, before we get to that, let me show you something I put together." Then, present your prepared proposal demonstrating your ideas for solving their specific problems.

4. Adaptability: Be ready to adapt your proposal during the meeting based on the feedback and additional insights you gain from the discussion. Listen carefully to the other person, identify any further needs or problems they mention, and adjust your proposal accordingly.

5. Follow-Up: After the meeting, follow up with a thank you note and a summary of your proposal, reinforcing how your skills and ideas can benefit the company.

This approach not only shows your unique value but also your proactive problem-solving skills and dedication. When executed well, the Briefcase Technique can significantly enhance your chances of securing a position or a project by showcasing how you can help the employer or client achieve their goals before you are even hired.

For further insights on implementing this technique, you can refer to Jordan Harbinger's discussion in the episode "Getting Your Foot In The Door"1. Also, he provides a detailed explanation of adapting the technique across different scenarios in the episode "The Briefcase Technique"2.