How to make a great first impression

We might not want to believe it, but when we meet someone or walk into a meeting or event, it only takes two seconds for us to be judged. People notice different things about you based on their values – it could be your hair, your smile, your outfit or how confident you appear

Looking the part is a good first step, and even if you’re on a restricted budget try to plan an outfit that really flatters but is also suitable for the occasion. Believe me, I’ve seen some shockers at events I’ve been at – the tracksuit bottoms and hoody didn’t make too much of an impression I have to say!

But looking the part won’t open every door – who you are and how you come across is just as, if not more important. You only have one chance to give people a wow first impression, so I’ve put together some easy-to-do tips to give you the best chance of staying front of mind for longer and for all the right reasons.

·       Even if you’re not feeling in the least bit confident, act like you are. Hold your head up, stride into the room and find someone to talk to quickly – don’t hover on the edge. Think about someone you like and respect who oozes confidence – in your own life or on TV and try to mimic some of the behaviours they exhibit. No one has to know you’re having a full-on wobble inside. If it all gets too much, excuse yourself, hot foot it to the loo, gulp in a few deep breaths, have a word with yourself and get back out there

·       People who smile are remembered much more than those that don’t. So, relax and smile like you are genuinely pleased to be there. If someone introduces themselves to you, remember their name and tell them how pleased you are to meet them. Keep eye contact while you talk – make a determined effort not to look down at your feet or above their head

·       Don’t make the conversation about you. Ask questions, show interest in their story, and a great tip is to practise the questions before you leave home – that way you’re not searching for something to say at a crucial moment. People love being listened to and the more attention you can give them (while still getting your story across too of course) the more you’ll stick in their minds

·       Business cards are important and if you’re handed one, read it, make a comment and then put it somewhere safe. Having a card holder for this purpose looks professional and says to the person ‘I respect you’ where just shoving it to the bottom of your bag doesn’t. Don’t forget to hand them your card in return

·       When the conversation or meeting comes to its natural end, don’t draw things out. Instead say something that will either make the person laugh or smile, tell them you hope to see them again one day and move on. You want them to remember you as someone nice to be around – one who it’s possible to relax with. Then when you follow up on your conversations, they’ll remember you instantly

Don’t forget:

Having an insight into how you come across and how you relate to others is really useful, so think about that – have you ever been given any feedback you can use to help. For instance, I know when I’m talking about something I’m passionate about, I talk too quickly, so quickly in fact that the other person doesn’t stand a chance of hearing what I’m saying properly. I know this as I’ve listened to people telling me this very thing, and instead of being affronted I made a mental note to change things. And now I am very aware of the issue and make sure I slow myself down when I get a bit excited (which is a lot!).

So, the moral of this tale is make yourself memorable, but not for the wrong reasons. And enjoy it – meeting people is fab and can lead to great friendships, collaborations and making more money in your business too. What’s not to like.