The greatest way to make a positive first impression is to demonstrate immediately that the other person, not you, is the centre of action and conversation. Illustrate that the spotlight is on you only, and you'll miss opportunities for friendships, jobs, love relationships, networking, and sales. Show that you are other-cantered, and first-time acquaintances will be eager to see you again. Confrontations with somebody you've just met will destroy rapport before you even start building it. Try to enjoy the nervous energy you are feeling. Have fun. Remember to smile. People are perceived as more attractive when they are having a good time.
Regardless of who we meet, it is important to make a good first impression. It is compounded by the fact that people rarely change their minds once their initial impression has been formed. Ironically the first impression has very little to do with who you are or what you have to say or how you say it. It’s based essentially on your appearance.
What you wear is the first thing people notice about you. Make sure your attire is appropriate for the situation. Does it fit well and look good on you? Is it wrinkled or stained? These are just some of the factors that combine to create an impression about you in someone’s mind. There’s nothing more powerful, yet more changeable, than the choices we make in our wardrobe. Project good posture. Our mothers’ advice to “sit up straight” was right on the mark. Our posture can make the difference between being thought of as lazy or energetic, competent or incompetent, happy and positive or depressed and lacking self-esteem. When you’re standing strive for symmetry. A balanced stance with weight evenly distributed on both legs projects more poise and grace than the casual leaning-on-one-leg posture which conveys apathy and shiftlessness. However, when seated, an asymmetrical posture is best. Envision the difference between a person seated with both feet planted on the floor with hands in lap and one with one leg crossed over the other, one hand in the lap and the other resting on the arm of the chair or propped against the chin. This asymmetrical posture creates a more relaxed, confident and comfortable presence.…
