Never underestimate the power of your first impression...

You may have heard that people make their mind up about you in the first 7 seconds of meeting

…but the reality is that it is actually only 3 seconds!

So getting it right is vitally important when you need to make the RIGHT impression first time.

Here’s 5 simple yet effective things you can do to make a good first, yet lasting impression.

1) PUNCTUALITY IS KEY

Arriving on time demonstrates respect for others, so it is essential to plan your journey accordingly and, if possible, arrive a few minutes early. If your meeting is virtual, ensure that you have everything prepared well in advance.

TOP TIP: Not only should you strive to be on time, but consider arriving a few minutes early to gather yourself and be fully present before the meeting starts. This extra time allows you to compose yourself and demonstrate your commitment to the interaction.

2) DRESS APPROPRIATELY

While physical appearance is not everything, it plays a significant role in shaping initial perceptions. ( Perception Becomes Reality) Dressing in an appropriate manner for the occasion will go a long way in making a favourable first impression.

TOP TIP: Pay attention to the specific context and dress accordingly. Research the dress code or expectations for the occasion, whether it's a formal business meeting or a casual networking event. Aim to strike a balance between professionalism and appropriateness for the environment.

3) SHOW GENUINE INTEREST

Expressing a sincere interest in what others have to say showcases your genuine concern for their thoughts, values, and opinions. Take the time to actively listen and respond thoughtfully, building a deeper connection through meaningful conversations.

TOP TIP: Actively engage in active listening by asking follow-up questions and seeking clarification when necessary. This demonstrates genuine curiosity and encourages the other person to share more about their perspective, fostering a deeper connection.

4) MASTER BODY LANGUAGE

Be mindful of your body language and the messages it conveys. Pay attention to your posture, maintain good eye contact, and project positive facial expressions. These non-verbal cues can speak volumes about your confidence and openness.

TOP TIP: Maintain an open and welcoming posture by keeping your arms uncrossed and facing the person you're speaking to. Additionally, consider mirroring their body language subtly, as it can create a sense of rapport and understanding.

5) POSITIVITY BREEDS CONNECTION

People are naturally drawn to positive and inspiring individuals. Demonstrating a positive attitude during initial encounters puts others at ease and makes them feel comfortable around you. Moreover, it increases the likelihood that they will want to engage with you again in the future.

TOP TIP: Incorporate positivity into your language and demeanor. Offer genuine compliments or show enthusiasm for shared interests or topics of discussion. This positivity can be contagious and leave a lasting impression on others.

Taking these simple yet critical steps when interacting with others will help you to create trust and maximise opportunities.

Not only the FIRST TIME, but EVERY TIME.