Making a Lasting First Impression...Positively

I once read that it takes three seconds for someone to form an opinion about us based on our appearance, body language and mannerisms. So, making positive first impression can go a long way for our career and personal life.

The next time you meet someone for the first time, use the tips below to make positive first impression;

Be on Time – There is no such thing as ‘fashionably late’. Someone you are meeting for the first time is not interested in your ‘creative’ excuse for running late. Plan to arrive a few minutes early and remember to allow some flexibility for possible delays such as traffic jam, etc.

Be Yourself - If you fake your behaviour, the other person will realize it sooner or later. This will make the other person uncomfortable. It’s a sure way to create the wrong impression.

Present Yourself Appropriately – Dress appropriately for the meeting or occasion. Is it a business meeting? An informal discussion over a cup of coffee? A day at the golf course? Do some research on how to dress for these different occasions. Remember to check your personal hygiene as well (your teeth, breath, facial hairs, etc).

Smile - A warm and confident smile will surely put both you and the other person at ease. When you smile, the other person will normally smile back and you have melted the ice.

Avoid Nervous Gestures - Be aware of your nervous habits such as playing with your pen, rubbing your neck, avoiding eye contact, tapping your feet, etc. Stop doing them or if unavoidable, try to minimize them.  

Small Talk Goes A Long Way –Take a few minutes to learn something about the person you meet for the first time. For instance, does he play golf? Comment about the weather, a current event or the coffee that both of you are enjoying.

Be Polite, Courteous and Attentive - It goes without saying that good manners and polite, attentive and courteous behavior help make a good first impression. Avoid gossiping or bad-mouthing. Use polite language such as “Please”, “Thank you”, “If I may”, “Can I suggest”, etc.

Listen actively – Without sounding aggressive, ask questions, seek clarifications, rephrase his statements or summarize to show that you are paying attention to what he says. Nod or affirm with statements such as “I see”, “Ok”, “Mmm”, etc.

So, the next time you meet someone for the first time, remember to apply these tips and you will surely leave a first impression that lasts....positively.