Alex Shalman.comPractical Personal Development

Everyone knows that a first impression can have a major impact on how people see you for the entirety of your relationship. A bad first impression can be difficult to overcome while a good one can make you stand out in a positive and memorable way. The initial meeting can be one of the most important interactions you can have with other people – personally or professionally.
Don’t take it lightly; try these tips to make a great first impression.

1. Be Punctual
Obviously, don’t arrive late. But also be cautious of arriving too early as well. Respect the other individual’s schedule. If you have a planned appointment, arriving a few minutes ahead of schedule is professional and respectful but make sure to let whoever greets you know that you are aware you’re early and it’s not a problem for you to have a seat and wait.

Remember to take the necessary measures to ensure your timely arrival – for example, if you don’t know where you’re going, leave a little bit earlier just in case you have trouble. If circumstances out of your control are causing you to run late, be sure you call ahead and let them know what has happened. Offer to reschedule if necessary.

2. Dress to Impress
This almost goes without saying. You always want to present yourself in a clean, put-together fashion. If you arrive looking like you just rolled out of bed, it will create an image of carelessness and disrespect for the person you are meeting. Putting some effort into your external appearance will also boost your confidence. You will walk in with your head held high if you feel like you look your best. Whether we like it or not, there is a certain amount of judgment that takes placed based upon how someone looks.

Remember that a short skirt may look fashionable to you, but to others it may be inappropriate. Be mindful of who you are meeting and the purpose for which you are meeting them.
A job interview? Keep the short skirt in the closet!

3. Perfect Your Handshake
The handshake is an important part of the professional greeting. Believe it or not, your handshake says a lot about you. Are you a strong, hearty shaker? Or do you have a limp, lifeless grip? If you aren’t comfortable with this cultural routine, you need to get comfortable. It is essential.

Practice with your friends and have them critique you. Remember to keep it firm, not too long (but don’t pull away like they’re made of asbestos either), and be sure to make eye contact.

4. Get Comfortable with Small Talk
Chit chat is a necessity – it gets the flow of conversation going, it helps build rapport, and it shows that you’re a friendly, confident individual.

Take some time to master the art because it can be difficult to those who are naturally shy or reserved. There are always the universal topics to fall back on, like weather, traffic, etc. But it helps to know a little something about the person with whom you are meeting. Maybe you can ask how they’re favorite sports team is doing, or if they’ve seen any good jazz shows lately, or how they’re golf game is going. Do a little research and see what you can find out. A few minutes of friendly chit chat can make people warm to you almost immediately.

5. Remember Names
Nothing turns people off more than having to re-introduce themselves. It makes them feel unimportant and disrespected. Consequently, nothing makes people feel more special than when someone they have met only briefly remembers their name. Do your best to commit names to memory upon meeting people the first time. If you need to, after attending a party or conference, make a few notes on whom you met and what you spoke about. That way, you’ll be able to remember them in the future.

For a few more tips on that will help you make a winning first impression, check out 8 Tips For Better People Skills at the Executive Assistant’s Toolbox.

This article was written by Chrissy. She can be found writing regularly at The Executive Assistant’s Toolbox – a blog that offers tips and tricks for professional and personal development. Stop by and see what’s new today!

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