How to Make a Good First Impression?
Photo Courtesy: Alex France
Whether the first impression is the last impression is a matter of debate, but there indeed is no alternative to making a good first impression. When someone first sees you what is it that he/she notices and forms an impression by? You need to keep in mind the following factors if you intend to make a good first impression.
1. Be punctual
The first thing to keep in mind is that you must always be on time. People who are not punctual are always despised and never trusted. Whether it is a job interview or meeting your fiancé’s parents for the first time, make sure you reach the venue on time. Reach early if possible and wait. It is always better than keeping others waiting.
2. Be neatly dressed
You must take care of how you look when you are about to meet someone new. Proper grooming and dressing is a must, as your clothes tell what kind of a background you come from and your tastes. Make sure you are neatly dressed and dressed appropriately. Be aware of the occasion and dress accordingly. Also, make sure you aren’t underdressed.
3. Mind your body language
Your body language send outs numerous non-verbal signs and signals to the people with whom you are interacting. Often they can mislead people into believing that you are disinterested while in actuality you may be nervous. Abstain from fidgeting, do not cross your legs while you sit and avoid folding your arms over your chest. Ensure you maintain a good posture and show that you are confident about what you are saying and who you are.
4. Listen
Maintain eye contact with the person you are meeting for the first time and listen to what he/she has to say. Listening is one quality that cannot be substituted by anything else. If you come across as someone who listens carefully and attentively, you are sure to create a positive first impression, and will most probably have your job done.
5. Talk slowly and effectively
Utmost care has to be taken when you talk. You are not expected to use difficult or complex words – speak in a simple language. Think before you open your mouth and make sure you really believe in what you say. Do not speak for the sake of it, and never ever lie if you want to make a good first impression. Do not speak very fast such that no one understands what you said. Speak slowly with proper pauses and eventually you will have made your point well.
After you have made your first impression, you need to maintain it consistently. It will make you a pleasant person whose company people will seek and look forward to.
