In the next several weeks you will be (or should be) meeting with your clients to discuss any issues and opportunities that have arisen from their tax returns.

An effectively run meeting is vital for proper communication, establishing rapport with clients and, potentially uncovering value added work. Having a meeting is one of the best forms of communication because 55% of communication is non-verbal signals and facial expressions.  In other words, if you had a choice of a meeting over the phone or via emails which carries a less than 10% chance of communicating the true meaning or feeling you want; clearly you would have a meeting.  One way to ensure a great meeting is to have an agenda. Be prepared. Try to anticipate some of the concerns and questions regarding the return.  Identify areas you believe need to be addressed and areas where you can provide solutions to their problems.

1. Greet clients

2. Start and end on time

3. Stick to the agenda as much as possible

4. Encourage and facilitate questions and discussion by clients. In many cases you may uncover more opportunities for work with your clients.

5. As the leader, listen carefully, show interest and appreciation in clients.

Please click on the attached agenda template which should be completed for each meeting.

In February 1895, brothers Louis and Auguste Lumiere patented the cinematograph, an all-in-one film camera, projector, and printer. With the use of their invention, the two Frenchmen created the concept of a motion picture. Their public screening in March 1895 was history's first. Later on that year the Lumieres reached another milestone, as a showing of their work became the earliest instance of an audience paying admission to watch a film.

Initially the brothers made a splash, producing thousands of short films in a span of less than two years. Their footage, shot at a variety of exotic locations, is widely considered to be the forebear of the modern documentary. However, despite their pioneering work in cinematography, the brothers failed to foresee the broad appeal of motion pictures. Within five years, the Lumieres had given up filmmaking to return to their previous work developing still photographs. "The cinema is an invention without a future," Louis Lumiere allegedly remarked.

For all of their inventiveness, the Lumiere's demonstrated a surprising lack of vision. Shortly after they stopped making films, the movie industry exploded. Crowds have been flocking to the theaters ever since. According to the Motion Picture Association of America, U.S. box offices took in 9.79 billion dollars in 2008.

The Lumieres missed out on the benefits of vision, but you don't have to. As a leader, you can keep sight of your vision and use it to influence others by following the four practices of a visionary leader.

1. Realize things will change.
2. Consider other people's perspective
3. Display courage when others are insecure
4. Prepare today to win tomorrow