How to make a good first impression
Ivan Dimitrijevic
Head of Growth @ OptimaB2B | From Zero to Hero on LinkedIn in 6 Months: Ignite Your B2B Growth
When meeting someone, all it takes is a few moments for that someone to form an opinion about you. Most of the time, it is almost impossible to change that opinion. Making a good first impression is highly important, because there is no second chance. Clothing, body language, manners, smells, all of these things make a big impact on the person that you are talking with. That’s why it is crucial to pay attention to these things especially when you are going to a job interview, on a date or when you are going out to party. Being a good and a hard working person is important but, some people won’t give you the chance to show these things and that is the sad truth. Reading this article will inform you on how to be prepared when it is important.
Never be late
Punctuality is an attribute that everyone appreciates. No one likes waiting for someone, especially if they are meeting them for the first time. Arriving on time gives people a sense of confidence in you and your responsibility. Go earlier than you should and plan ahead for traffic jam or any unexpected hold up-s that may delay your arrival at the meeting place. Arriving earlier is much better than arriving late, and this makes for a perfect start in getting a good first impression.
Do not over think
No matter if you are going out on a date or on a job interview, try not to strain yourself by over thinking how you will act. Thinking and planning comes in days before the actual meeting. On the actual day, be relaxed and confident. Over thinking may make you feel on the edge and start saying things that you should not say, this will make you companion feel uncomfortable and make a bad impression on him or her. If you are feeling nervous and you cannot calm down, than I suggest you drink a bit of alcohol (do not get drunk!) - just enough to relax.
Smile
When meeting someone for the first time, it is important to smile when you need to loosen up the tension. We are all human, and everyone enjoys a good laugh. When you are on a job interview, if asked a serious question about your work or skills, it is advisable to avoid smiling at that point but when a more casual conversation is involved. Smiling is the winner for first impressions, but don’t overdo it, watch the reactions of your participant and see does he enjoys what you are doing. Taking care of oral hygiene is important to have a sparkling and lovely smile. If you have problems with your teeth, consider teeth whitening for a better effect.
Be open and interested
When meeting someone be truly interested in them. People notice when someone is truly interested in them and this makes them feel good about themselves. Everyone has had experience with people who obviously don’t want to be in a current situation but were dragged by a friend or someone else. Approach to people who you are honestly interested in, this will establish a bond and a relationship that may last for a long time. Talk about yourself honestly and openly, be proud of what you are and have confidence in yourself. Don’t say things that you don’t mean or represent yourself falsely, this may work initially but the truth will come out on top and may result in you losing your job or breaking a relationship.
Wear proper clothes
If you are going to a business meeting, you cannot wear something casual or the clothes that you wear every day. Your style must show professionalism and devotion if you want to impress your future employee. The same rule applies when you go on a date - proper clothes for a proper event.
Keep all this in mind and people will be more open to you I can guarantee that. But try not to approach them too bluntly, people are different and you need to judge their character so you can assume in which direction should you lead the conversation. In some situations, try surprising people by doing something unexpected and new.