When meeting people for the first time, you need to make a good first impression. You may not get a second chance so make every first encounter meaningful. Below are seven techniques that can be used for any situation:
1. Smile – When you meet people, you want to make sure that you greet them with a smile. Smiling shows that you are approachable and ready to talk. People would rather talk to a positive person.
2. Wear Your Nametag Correctly – When attending an event and you are given a nametag that you can clip or stick on your shirt, make sure that you position it on the right side of your body. In fact, position it high and to the right. You want to do this because when you shake with your right hand, your name is visible and in the line of sight. Next time, take a look at an executive’s nametag. My bet is that he/she will be wearing it in this position.
3. Stand in Waiting Rooms – When you have a meeting with someone at his/her office and you arrive early, make an effort to stand in the waiting room. Don’t sit down because you won’t be ready to greet this person when he/she enters the room. A seasoned executive taught me this technique, which actually works. He told me that as an executive, he would rather have the person standing and ready to meet.
4. Firm Handshake – Make sure that you have a firm handshake when greeting someone. Pay attention to this because it can be easily forgotten. If you aren’t sure if you are gripping hard enough, then grip harder. Chances are that your first grip was not strong enough anyways.
5. Good Eye Contact – When talking with people, make sure that you are looking them in the eyes. You don’t want to be caught moving your eyes all over the room. This may show that you don’t care or that you are nervous. People will take you more serious if you focus on them.
6. Polish Your Appearance – This should go without saying, however, people need reminders. Make sure that your clothes are presentable. Don’t wear anything that has stains or holes. You will be amazed at how many people wear this type of clothes to events. Carry an extra shirt or tie in the office. Also, make sure that you polish your shoes on a regular basis. You want your total package to be in order.
7. Show Sincerity – When talking with people, you need to genuinely take an interest in what is said. Make sure to ask engaging and good questions to show that you really do care. Also, ask people how you can help them, which is the basis of starting a good relationship.
For more insight into first impressions, check out Your Networking Demeanor Can Make a Lasting Impression.
Great advice.
Posted by: Melvin Ram | August 22, 2007 at 09:27 AM