Make a Good "First Impression"

Many times we only get one chance to make an impression on someone.  There are some important things to remember that will help you make the best first impression.  Listed below are the ten most common things people can do to make the best first impression possible:

1.  Be neat, clean, and dress appropriately.  Make sure you are showered, have fresh breath, combed hair, and wear clothes that are neat, clean and appropriate to the event.

2.  Maintain good eye contact.  This shows people that you are listening to them and interested in them.  Don't stare or glare, just focus on them and their immediate direction the majority of the time.

3.  Shake hands.  Most people appreciate and expect a friendly handshake upon meeting one another.  The best kind of handshake is one that is firm and 3 to 5 seconds long.  Look the person in the eyes while shaking their hand.  Don't apologize for "cold or clammy" hands.

4.  Smile and show a positive attitude.  A warm and friendly smile goes a long way in making a good first impression.   Introduce yourself with your name, smile and say hello.  Smile and nod occasionally a you listen to the other person speak to show your interest in what is being said.  A positive attitude is like a magnet - it attracts people.

5.  Listen more than you talk.  Listening to your new acquaintance will give you information to refer to later on, and it will give your new friend the impression you are genuinely interested in them.  If you are asked questions, feel free to talk and remember to share the floor and ask questions in return.  Everyone appreciates, likes, and enjoys a good listener that show interest in what is being said.

6.  Be yourself.  People don't like fakes.  Trying to be something that you are not does not impress people in a positive way.  Be yourself, try to relax, and go with the flow of the conversation.

7.  Ask questions.  Show that you have an active interest in the other person's thoughts, ideas, and opinions on life.  People enjoy talking abut themselves and giving their opinions on things in general.  People usually feel flattered and respected when others, especially people who have never met them, show real interest in them and their opinions.  Avoid being "self-centered".  don't spend a lot of time talking abut yourself and "your" life.  Show interest in the other person.

8.  Avoid bragging and name-dropping.  Bragging about what you own, what you drive, or your financial successes are in bad taste and turn most people off.  People are more interested in your thoughts, feelings, and knowledge rather than in your material possessions.  People are more impressed with what you know rather than whom you know unless you are there to help them network.

9.  Don't overindulge in food or drink.  It is always wise to eat and drink in moderation.  This is especially true of drinking alcohol.  There is nothing worse than a person getting intoxicated and saying to doing things that are embarrassing, rude, crude, or all three.  Use good self-control and eat as your new friend does, and drink only is social moderation or not al all.  Dennis R. Tesdell states "What is done one night under the influence of alcoholic merriment might be regretted for hundreds of nights in clear headed sobriety!"

10.  Leave your company with a smile, a handshake, and a sincere comment.  No matter how you felt the evening went, it is common courtesy to shake hands when the evening is over, offer a smile, and some sort of friendly comment.   If you had a great time and want to get together again say that. 

Recommended Reading:   Secrets to Social Success An Ebook That After Being Read, Your Confidence And Social Skills Will Be Dramatically Improved. You Will Learn To Easily Generate Magnetism With Anyone You Come Across Within Only A Couple Of Minutes.

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