How many times have you had someone come in for a meeting with you and you have taken one quick look at them and thought, “here we go”.
They look awful and their whole persona is negative. From their body language to their eye contact to the soft shake of your hand.
How about the shoe on the other foot for this one. It takes just a quick look, not even two seconds, for someone to evaluate you when you meet for the first time. The other person forms an opinion about you based on your appearance, your body language, your demeanour, your mannerisms, and how you are dressed.
With every new encounter, you are evaluated and yet another person’s impression of you is formed. These first impressions are nearly impossible to reverse and set the tone for ongoing relationships.
You can make your first impression better by:
Being on time. No excuse, plan to arrive a few minutes early.
Being yourself. If you are calm and confident, the other person will feel at ease.
Presenting yourself appropriately. Your appearance is usually the first clue the other person has to go by and dressing appropriately is very important.
Smiling! There’s nothing like a good smile. It puts everyone at ease and is a winner for first impressions.
Being open and confident. Use your body language to project appropriate confidence and self-assurance. Make eye-contact, stand tall and shake hands firmly.
Small talking. It goes a long way. Prepare questions or learn something about the person before you meet with them.
