Thursday, February 18, 2010

Making the Most of First Impressions


Seven seconds is the average length of time you have to make a great first impression. A positive first impression can turn a chance encounter into a long term association.

1. Learn what people use to form their first opinion
Meeting someone face-to-face 93% of how you are judge is based on nonverbal data -- your appearance and your body language. Only 7% is influenced by the words you speak. When your initial encounter is over the phone, 70% of how you are perceived is based on your tone of voice and 30% on your words.

2. Choose your first twelve words carefully
Express some form of thank you when you meet a potential connection.

3. Use the other person’s name immediately
There is nothing sweeter than the sound of your own name. Use a person’s name in conversation within your first 12 words and the first 7 seconds. Nothing gets other people’s attention as effectively as calling them by name and giving them your full attention.

4. Pay attention to your grooming
Others notice your hair and face first. Putting off that much-needed haircut or color job may cost you the relationship. Very few people want to do business with someone who is unkempt or whose hairstyle does not look professional.

5. Keep your shoes in mint condition
If your shoes aren’t well maintained, others will question whether you pay attention to detail. Shoes should be polished as well as appropriate for the business environment.

6. Walk fast
People who walk 10 - 20% faster than others are viewed as important and energetic -- the kind of person others want to do business with.

7. Fine tune your handshake
The first move you should make when meeting someone is to put our your hand. There isn’t a businessperson anywhere who can’t tell you that the good business handshake should be a firm one. Once you’ve connected, close your thumb over the back of the hand and give a slight squeeze.

8. Never go out without your business card
Your business card and how you handle them contribute to your total image. Have a good supply of them with you at all times since you never know when and where you will encounter a potential client or employer.
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