What do you take into the field?

[Augustus Aurelius]

Hey guys,

I need some information on what you guys are bringing into the field with you? Are you bringing a briefcase filled with applications or do you mainly rely on carriers who only use E-apps? Maybe both?

For those of you working off I-pads are you using your phone as a mobile hotspot or do you have cellular service directly on your I-pads?

I currently have a laptop and drove around some small towns in Kentucky to see if my mobile hotspot would actually work as I've never used it before. I was pleasantly surprised to see that it did in fact work. It did however drain the battery of my cell phone somewhat quickly. So I'm torn between getting an I-Pad with cellular service or just going in with the mobile hotspot and trying to keep the cell phone and laptop battery as charged as possible throughout the day.

Also what are you guys wearing into the field? Do some of you in FE go all out suit and tie? Does dressing up to much make the clients feel some type of way? Or does it really not matter as much as I think it does?

Thoughts?

Derek

 

[PA Bill]

Hey guys,

I need some information on what you guys are bringing into the field with you? Are you bringing a briefcase filled with applications or do you mainly rely on carriers who only use E-apps? Maybe both?

For those of you working off I-pads are you using your phone as a mobile hotspot or do you have cellular service directly on your I-pads?

I currently have a laptop and drove around some small towns in Kentucky to see if my mobile hotspot would actually work as I've never used it before. I was pleasantly surprised to see that it did in fact work. It did however drain the battery of my cell phone somewhat quickly. So I'm torn between getting an I-Pad with cellular service or just going in with the mobile hotspot and trying to keep the cell phone and laptop battery as charged as possible throughout the day.

Also what are you guys wearing into the field? Do some of you in FE go all out suit and tie? Does dressing up to much make the clients feel some type of way? Or does it really not matter as much as I think it does?

Thoughts?

Derek

Wouldn't count on Wi-FI in the sticks (or anywhere with everyone home) and country people won't cotton to a suit. Always go to the door "small". You don't want to look like you're packing for overnight. Puts them in a squirrely mood.

 

[Baseball7]

Derek,

I'd suggest an ipad pro with apple pencil, and lte service so you don't need to pair to your phone. I carry a small messenger bag that has my presentation binder, ipad, and brochures. What to wear? I wear a nice polo and jeans during the summer basically business casual.

Don't over think the business just get out there and learn!

 

[BibH]

No need to spend $900-$1100 on an iPad Pro . I have an iPad version 7 I bought for $249 on sale last yr that's incredible . But what's more important is the Logitech combo keyboard case Thats indispensable. It's hard covering is bullet proof if you drop it plus you only have to charge with one cord as it dual charges the keyboard and iPad . I bought 10 digital pencils for $4 at Walmart . If you only need for signing apps that's all you need . I have a hollow clipboard that holds a few apps and company brochures and 6 laminated presentation sheets . My friend in Indiana makes $400 k a yr and wears shorts and tennis shoes 8 months of the yr . As Baseball says get a system and get out there . People can guide you but till you see a ton of people and learn your skill personally all the dry runs and thinking is a waste of time

 

[Baseball7]

When it comes to technology in the field having the best I think it's worth every penny invested. Make sure you using notability on the iPad for anything that is not an e- application.

 

[BibH]

Never had any issues my setup . But one of the most important things is reliable net connection . Verizon smokes every carrier in coverage map . I work many stick areas . Verizon's discounter total wireless exact sane service 1/2 the price

 

[WTX2WY]

OP, I am old fashioned and still do everything on paper so I carry a leather 3 ring binder that has all of my presentation materials, rate sheets, brochures, and apps.

I would like to move to everything electronic to simplify things so this thread is of interest.

For those who are using ipads, is that just for the e-app or are you using a powerpoint on the ipad to give your presentation and then showing rates on the ipad as well? In a perfect system I would only have my ipad with me and do everything online, but physical laminated slicks and paper rate sheets seems easier to use at a kitchen table or workplace table.

If everything is on your ipad though that probably cuts down on the "can I keep these" (to look over/procrastinate) objections.

 

[Travis Price]

I don't go into the field. However, I agree that you want to carry as light as possible. Don't shy away from technology. It makes you more efficient and organized.

 

[shonceman]

I'm using a cellular connected 6th generation iPad with a $14 stylus I found on Amazon. (I'll put a link for it below.) I've had this iPad for awhile. It's my 3rd one. I only replace one when it gets old enough that Apple no longer updates it. (Never felt the need for the latest and greatest, because next year they won't be!) I work with one smaller carrier that insists on paper apps with a wet signature, so I keep a couple of those in my iPad messenger bag, and some more in the car. (I have a lot of "might need" stuff in the car! LOL!). I keep tri-fold flyers in my bag, and full size brochures in the car. I like to give magnetic business cards, so I keep a few of those with me. At this time of year, I also leave behind a wall calendar with my agency info at every house I visit.

I have some PP (Keynote on iPad) presentations, but I rarely use them. I've developed a more conversational style and my presentation mainly involves asking questions and writing on a notepad that I keep in my bag.

I'm usually wearing some version of khakis with polo shirt in warmer months, long sleeve button down in cooler months. Casual jacket in cooler months. - Mask. -

My stylus:
Amazon product ASIN B07MV7FPPW
My bag:
Amazon product ASIN B00GT3EDRS
My calendars:
Promotional Calendars - Custom Wall and Desk Calendars | COMDA

 

[Augustus Aurelius]

Derek,

I'd suggest an ipad pro with apple pencil, and lte service so you don't need to pair to your phone. I carry a small messenger bag that has my presentation binder, ipad, and brochures. What to wear? I wear a nice polo and jeans during the summer basically business casual.

Don't over think the business just get out there and learn!

Presentation Binder? Is this something similar to a flip chart?

Sounds like a lot of you guys are using presentation binders then? Seems smart to me to keep the presentation on track and give the client something to look at while your going through the material!