Whether you are at an event, a business development meeting, or just a chance encounter, making the right first impression can mean everything in business. The right first impression can be the difference between winning that ideal client, forming a new partnership, or gaining that investment. That is why knowing how to make a good first impression is a skill that everyone in business must have in their toolkit.
- Smile and Make Eye Contact
This might seem like a basic piece of advice, but it is worth remembering. Smiling when you first meet someone is the easiest way to project confidence and friendliness, as well as making a long lasting impression. This is due to the fact that smiling is a psychological sign of altruism, meaning that when you smile at someone, they are more likely to trust you.
Eye contact is also hugely important. Not only does making eye contact help you appear more confident, but it can actually affect your relationship with the other person. Studies have found that making eye contact for at least 30% of a conversation makes you more memorable to the person you are speaking with. This advice is useful for both professional and personal first impressions, as smiling and making eye contact can help you project a confidence that will ensure you are remembered.
- The Right Handshake and Introductions
Research has found that, on average, it takes about 7 seconds for people to form a first impression, which makes the right handshake and a good introduction critical. Having good posture and a strong firm handshake will help you instantly seem confident and collected. Just make sure that the handshake isn’t too strong; no-one wants their hand crushed.
Knowing what to say during an introduction is also important, but it’s often easier when you know a little about the person you are meeting. Try to do your research so you are instantly able to engage them in a conversion by asking a question. However, if you are meeting someone completely new to you, phrases like ‘it’s lovely to meet you’ can help ease things along.
- Speak Slowly and Clearly
Speaking slowly and clearly can be valuable for two reasons: firstly, it will make you appear more articulate and intelligent. Secondly, it will allow the person you are speaking to more time to digest what you are saying, making your words more memorable.
- Secure the Contact
Having your own custom business cards means that no matter where you are, you always have the means to form a long-lasting professional relationship. A business card is a quick, easy, and impressive way of providing your contact details in a format that can show your personal brand. Giving every relevant person you meet a business card is one of the best ways of growing your professional network, as you never know who might prove a useful contact in the future.
- Always Follow Up
Following up with a new contact soon after the first meeting is an important part of securing that new relationship and cementing your positive first impression. This follow up doesn’t need to be a phone call; it could just be a quick email to connect you both.
