Success comes easy for people who place value on making good first impressions. As you meet different people who may eventually be helpful in your career or job search, it is a must that you put your best foot forward so they may have a positive lasting impression on the kind of person you are. In this post, you’re going to learn what any career or personal coach would say about making a good first impression.
When in business and networking situations, keep these things in mind:
1. Mind what you’re wearing.
When you are about to meet people for the first time, you must look ‘proper’. This means that you have to dress for the particular event or occasion. To know what is proper and what is not, you can do some research or you may even contact the organization itself so you could have an idea of what the right attire would be.
2. Grooming is an essential factor in making good first impressions.
Wearing the best attire means nothing if you don’t look neat and groomed. Be sure that your hair is neat and professional-looking. For men, keep your facial hair trimmed or non-existent at all. And for women, wearing make-up is okay, but be careful not to overdo it. It would be okay to wear cologne or perfume also as long as it doesn’t overwhelm the people you are about to meet. Lastly, wearing a little jewelry is recommended.
3. Wear your name tag appropriately.
Not all of us are aware that name tags have to be worn on your right shoulder area. The reason for this is that when a person approaches you and reaches out to shake your hand, he or she will follow your arm up to the name tag. In short, this is the best position of name tag to make it easier to greet you.
4. Handshakes
When shaking one’s hand, make sure it is simple and warm. Just extend your right hand and grasp the other person’s hand firmly but gently. Avoid grasping it too hard or using one hand over the other when shaking. Be sure also that your hand is not sweaty. If you can’t help but have sweaty hands, always have a hankie with you so you could wipe it out before you shake someone else’s hand.
5. Do not make the conversation all about you.
It is important that you engage the other person in the conversation you are having. While it is important that you make the other person know about you, you should also give the other person the chance to talk about himself or herself. It is recommended that you also look for something in common between you, which you can use as topic of your conversation. Remember, though, not to choose controversial topics, like politics, sex, and religion.
If you come to think of it, all these pointers are simple and common sense. The problem is that many of us still forget what to do and what not do when it comes to making a good first impression. You can also work with a professional personal coach or career coach to guide you you as you try to grow your network.
Cecile Peterkin is a certified career and retirement coach, and a registered member of the Career Professionals of Canada and the International Coach Federation. She is also the Founder and Senior Career Strategist at Cosmic Coaching Centre, provider of career and life management services for middle managers and mid-career professionals across Canada, United States and Europe.