Networking: Part 2 of 8 - First Impressions

First impressions only happens once.

How are you dressed? If you meet a financial advisor in a cheap suit with beat up shoes, what is your perception? Do you think others would think that too? What if you had the choice between two general contractors? One is wearing holey jeans and a t-shirt. The other is wearing jeans and a golf shirt with the company logo. What is your perception? Do you think others would think that too?

How is your speech? Can you articulate your message? Do you sound like you know what you are talking about? Do you sound like a professional?

Something simple to affect a first impression is to simply smile and greet people like you’re very happy to see them. Enthusiasm is vital to making a great first impression.

Do I feel like you care about what I am saying? Are your eyes darting around? Are you looking over my shoulder to see who is around? Are you actively listening to me? This is behavior that solidifies a first impression.

Carnegie said, “be interesting by being interested in them.”

Have you had too much to drink? That certainly will not help your first impression.

What does your business card say about you? Is it professional? Does it stand out? Is it fun or unique? People will form a perception about you based on your card.