It takes a person three seconds (or less!) to form an opinion about a person he/she has met for the very first time. Firsts always matter. And yes, first impressions can make or break a potential lasting business relationship.

As an article from Talk Business succinctly said, “A business runs on personal communication as much as it does on money, and if you want to be successful, it is vital that those who have cause to connect with you receive the very best impression from the outset.”

Whether you’re meeting other entrepreneurs in a convention or pitching a project to potential business partners, making a positive first impression should be one of your top priorities. Below are 5 essential tips to guide you in making good first impressions.

 1.    Respect Other People’s Time

When meeting with a prospect for the very first time, the worst thing you can do is arrive late. This will make you look unprofessional and disrespectful of the other party’s time. Being on time is the first step to making a great first impression.

 2.    Present Yourself Professionally and Appropriately

What you wear affects others’ opinion of you. To make a positive first impression, look clean and neat, and match the level of formality of the business or person you are meeting with.

 3.    Give Them Your Undivided Attention

Do not check your mobile phone. Don’t glance at your laptop screen. Put everything else away and give the other person your full attention. Anything less and you risk making them feel important and unworthy of your time.

 4.    Choose Your Words Carefully

Do not underestimate the power of words. Every single word you utter reflects your values and character. You might want to use positive, inspiring, and persuasive words and phrases to make people feel at ease with your presence. How you use words can frame your and other people’s perspectives.

 5.    Be Mindful of Your Posture and Body Language

Although not explicitly, our posture and body language convey information about us too. To make a great first impression, keep an open body language by following these few dos and don’ts. 

Do:

• Stand up straight.
• Lean in when talking.
• Keep good eye contact.
• Look interested.
• Relax your body.

Don’t:

• Tightly cross of the arms or legs.
• Hunch over in your seat.
• Fidget.
• Touch your face.
• Turn your body away from the person.

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Sources:

https://www.mindtools.com/CommSkll/FirstImpressions.htm

https://www.talk-business.co.uk/2014/12/03/important-first-impressions-business/

https://www.businessinsider.com/9-powerful-ways-to-make-a-great-first-impression-2017-12#6-show-that-other-people-are-more-important-6

https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/first-impression-tips