You only get one so you better make it good! This week as July makes its first impression on us, we’re taking a look at what makes a good first impression.
Unfortunately, you can make a bad first impression on someone before you even meet them if you’re late. Always be on time. The person you are meeting with will appreciate not having to wait for you. Go ahead and plan to arrive a few minutes before the meeting to allow time for travel. If you’re on time, you’re already starting your first-time meeting off on the right foot.
Before you even open your mouth, chances are you’re already being judged inadvertently on your professional appearance. This doesn’t mean you have to look like a fashion model to make a good first impression, it means that you should present yourself appropriately for the occasion. You should ask yourself if the appearance you are giving off is the impression you want to leave. For example, if you’re going into an interview, make sure you are dressing for the job you want.
So what now? You’re on time and you look good, but remember your face. Are you smiling? If you walk up with a huge positive smile on your face, c whomever you’re smiling at will likely return the gesture. Just make sure your smile is genuine and not too fake or forced. The next steps are to stand tall and with confidence, make eye contact, smile and greet the other person with a strong (but not too strong!) handshake.
After your initial greeting, it’s time for the tough part: Making small talk. To avoid lulls in the conversation, make sure you’ve done your research. Most professionals post a small bio on their website, educate yourself on their interests and you won’t find yourself without conversation.
I hope that this little tutorial will help you make a great first impression and we hope everyone has a wonderful summer season!
