Everyone knows that famous saying “You only have one chance to make a first impression.” And in my opinion this holds very true in the work environment. Sadly it only takes seconds to mere minutes for a person to form a conception about you, and even your work style. So it’s incredibly important to make that great first impression, and do it right when you meet someone. But what are the best tactics to use to ensure you project your awesomeness from moment one?  

Prep talking points

Make sure to do your research (aka internet stalking) before meeting anyone new. Get to know the person, or people, as much as possible. Where did they attend college? What do they do in their free time? Do they volunteer or sit on a board? Do your homework and gain a good understanding of who you are meeting. While doing your research, prepare two or three talking points. Something that you can organically bring up in conversation to show you took the time to get to know the individual before meeting. This will go a long way.

Find something in common

Creating a bond or point of commonality will go really far. This is where you research will come in handy. Find a way to sneak a commonality into your conversation. Small talk can sometimes be the key to you getting noticed over others, so do not discount it.

Exude confidence

Displaying confidence through your body language and posture will ensure you have an easier time meeting people. And they will feel more comfortable around you. Conversation will flow in a natural way and you will eliminate those nervous butterflies in your stomach.

Dress to impress

Make sure your look is on point and professional. When you look good, you feel good and others will notice that confidence. Keep in mind that when meeting new people it’s always better to be overdressed than under dressed. And if you aren’t sure what to wear for a meeting or event, its OK to ask the host.

Show those pearly whites

Always keep a nice smile on your face when meeting new people or attending a meeting. This will make you look approachable, giving that easy going look.

Shake hands….firmly

A good strong handshake is another way to display confidence. A good handshake is firm, solid, and last just about 2-3 seconds. Not sure if you have a good handshake? Practice makes perfect. Practice on friends, family members, and coworkers.

Keep you body language in check

Nervous…that’s OK, but don’t show it. Keep good posture and stand (or sit) with confidence and composure. Walk proudly and never slouch. People take notice to body language even when you don’t think anyone is looking.

Play to your strengths

What is your strong suit in conversations? Are you a great listener? Capable of engaging others? Good at small talk or making someone laugh? Use these talents in conversation to get others to continue chatting. Not sure what you are good at? Ask friends or coworkers. Play to these strengths in conversation and people will always remember who you are.

Be your amazing self

Sounds super cliché but just be you. Don’t try too hard. People will notice and it will seem very inauthentic. Be confident, put on that smile, and kill it. You are amazing so don’t forget to show everyone who you are.

Follow-up

The conversation should never be considered over. To make sure your first impression sticks you want to connect with the person within a day of meeting. Send a connection request via LinkedIn with a note thanking the person for the great conversation. The thank you note should also include a word about something you discussed in your conversation. Talked about skiing, kids, or a cool book. Bring it up in the note.  This is also a great point to ask for a follow-up call or coffee meeting to continue your conversation in greater depth.

Take aways

Do:

  • Research the person (or people) you are meeting
  • Prepare talking points
  • Find something in common and find a way to bring it up
  • Dress to impress and exude confidence
  • Play to your conversational strengths

Don’t:

  • Forget your body language. It should be relaxed, confident, and comfortable
  • Discount small talk. It’s a great way to connect and possibly bond
  • Forget to follow up

If you stick to these tips you are sure to make a killer first impression.