Effective First Impressions

Create powerful first impressions that last when meeting with a new employer, with a new business partner or giving a presentation. Making a great first impression

is vital in meeting with someone that you want to have a professional working relationship with. In this lens you will discover ways to improve your professional presence.

Did you know that once an impression is made, you cannot reverse it in most cases. So, if you make a negative first impression lets say on a job interview or a business meeting. There is no turning back or at least it would be very hard to change. So, making that first impression is very important.

When making that all important great first impression remember that you are getting ready for a lasting memory from the person that you meet.

You should always of course practice good hygiene. Like bathing, wear deodorant, don't overdue the cologne or perfume, wear clothes that make a statement but not a loud statement. You want to make this person think you exude confidence.

You should always smile when you first meet someone. A smile will make the person feel that you are warm and kind. But, don't overdue it. Smile when you are introducing your self, and then go back to your normal look on your face.

Make a lasting impression by looking the person you are talking to straight in the eyes. Don't let your eyes wander. By looking the person straight into their eyes, you are letting them know that you are sincere.

And, make sure that you are consistent with your words and actions. In other words when you say something make sure you introduce yourself and listen closely to what the persons name is and remember it. And, don't forget to shake hands!

Remembering their name and repeating it throughout the time you spend with them will definitely make a strong positive first impression.

The best way to shake hands is to grasp the persons hand with your hand and firmly squeeze their hand, but not too hard.

You do not want to shake the persons hand to loosely either because that will indicate that you are a "dead fish".

So, you want to make sure you give a firm but not to firm handshake as to tell the person you are meeting that you have confidence and you are sure of yourself.

Another important thing to remember is to say "nice to meet you" while still in the handshake. This always makes the person you are meeting feel like you are genuinely happy to meet them.

Always do your research first. If the person you are meeting is in a executive office in a big office building in a big city, you almost always want to wear a business suit, a tie and hold a briefcase, but if you are meeting with a surf shop owner in a beach city, you could probably play it down a couple of notches. But, don't get too sloppy or too relaxed. Still wear a smart business casual outfit, and make sure everything is clean and fresh.

Have you ever had a bad first impression of someone, and you want to share your story? Go ahead tell us.