What is a Lunch-n-Learn?

There are many benefits, including:

	Improving your communication skills
	Creating awareness about what an actuary is and your contributions to the organization
	Improving communication throughout the organization
	Introducing a new initiative
	Building and/or increasing teamwork within the organization
	Emphasizing a collaborative working environment to get the job done

The key to any Lunch-n-Learn is preparation, preparation, preparation.

If you are having lunch with a colleague, whether it's about a particular project or a "get-to-know-you" lunch, make sure you:

	Call in advance and schedule a time that is convenient for both of you
	If there is a specific topic you want to talk about, share the information ahead of time so that your lunch will be beneficial for both of you—nobody likes surprises!
	Think through what you want to discuss before you leave
	Enjoy yourself—show interest and excitement
	Follow-up with a thank you phone call, e-mail or face-to-face conversation

If you are doing a group presentation make sure you:

	Give yourself ample time to prepare your presentation and allow your attendees sufficient time to fit it into their schedules (a minimum of two weeks notice)
	Remember, you will have about 40 minutes to do your presentation so design it carefully and offer a blend of information that is interesting, important and fun!
	Market it effectively using e-mails and memos, and mention that lunch will be provided (if your organization will pay for it) – food always gets attention!
	Highlight the benefits of attending – what attendees will learn and what's in it for them.
	Invite key staff to participate to demonstrate commitment and the value of participation.
	If appropriate, ask a colleague to present with you but make sure that he/she is a good presenter.
	Review Presentation Tips Checklist for preparing a good presentation.

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