Whether you are looking for a job or you are entering a business meeting with investors making a great first impression can be crucial. Most people will decide quickly about how much they like someone based on that initial interaction with them. As such, you will want to make sure that you are providing them with the right idea of who you are from the beginning.
To help you make the best possible first impression we have curated a list of tips and helpful advice to help you take the next step in your career with more confidence.
1. Posture
Most people do not tend to think about their posture and yet, how you are standing is usually going to influence how others perceive you. If you are slouching and not standing tall, people may assume that you are closed off or that you are trying to hide something. Similarly, an aggressive position may make you come across as someone who promotes conflict and is less friendly. This is why you will want to always keep your shoulders down, back straight, and try to look as relaxed as possible while in an interview or meeting.
2. Facial expressions
Much like with your posture, your facial expressions will also play a big role in how others perceive you. For the most part, you should always try to smile and appear friendly. When not smiling try to appear relaxed and focused. This will help you make a great first impression during your meeting.
3. Control your attitude
Whether in an interview for a job position or an important business meeting you will want to keep your attitude as enthusiastic and positive as possible. This does not mean acting immature or jumping up and down, but it does mean being animated and talking about things positively. The way that you talk about your projects, previous experiences, and people you have met will often be seen as a determinant by companies that want to decide if you would be a good fit. Therefore, try to be positive and promote a relaxed and happy environment.
4. Eye Contact
Many people when nervous will avoid eye contact with others at all costs. This makes you look less confident and it will not be considered a positive attribute to have. As much as possible and where appropriate try to maintain eye contact and show a direct interest in the discussion happening in front of you.
5. Listen and Respond thoughtfully
Many people will not listen carefully to the things said around them. As a result, they will not respond with the appropriate level of care or with a response that showed understanding of the situation. To make a great first impression you will want to show that you can be an active listener and participate well in any conversation that you have.
If you are preparing for your first interview and you want to make the best possible first impression you may also want to prepare ahead of time some key questions to ask the recruiters. For ideas on such questions get more.
