You only get one chance to make a good impression, so it’s important to prepare for it. Here are some practical tips to make sure you present yourself in a good light
So much and so much more. A smiling person is perceived as positive and friendly. Don’t forget this when shaking hands or as soon as you see the person you are about to meet. A positive attitude will make the interviewer more open and friendly. Remember that a smile makes you smile.
Want to make a good first impression? Pay attention to your body language. Focus on the interlocutor, don’t look away, don’t assume a closed position by crossing your arms, don’t slouch. In this case, the best thing to do is to be open, natural, turn towards the other person, even slightly leaning towards them, and of course establish eye contact.
It is said that you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, and that our appearance cannot determine our worth. Unfortunately, when it comes to first impressions, it plays a really important role. Always dress appropriately for the situation at hand – a social gathering, date, job interview, office visit, college class, workshop, conference, etc.
Being punctual is important in all areas of our lives, even more so if you are meeting someone for the first time. If you want to do well, you have to make sure you’re not late. Otherwise, even before you show up, you will be at a loss. It may be that the lateness is due to a really important matter, in which case call and warn that you will be later.
This point may seem a bit out of context, but nothing could be further from the truth. Before each meeting, take a moment to think about who you are actually going to, what environment you are going to enter, where you are going to be. We will behave in a slightly different way at a job interview, when dealing with issues in the bank, and still differently during the first classes of the selected course. Our behavior should be tailored to the circumstances.
Not only eye contact and a positive attitude can do a lot, but it is also good manners to show interest in the other party. Listening attentively, but also maintaining a dialogue and asking meaningful questions – this will undoubtedly be to your advantage.
The final piece of advice is to just be yourself. Yes, your attitude, dress and behavior should be appropriate to the occasion, but don’t forget about your personality and character. Do not pretend to be anyone, do not exalt yourself, do not cheat. Naturalness and sincerity definitely pays off – both in private and professional contacts, official and any other.
Main photo: Amy Hirschi/unsplash.com
