Knowing how to make a good first impression is a skill that will make you stand out in nearly all situations. Going on a first date? Preparing for a job interview? Walking into a room and only know the host? Instead of feeling nervous, follow these seven expert tips for making a great first impression and people will remember you for all the right reasons.
1. Stand tall
“Our posture can reveal all sorts of information about what we think of ourselves,” advises public speaking coach Shola Kaye, “so remember to stand up straight. Don’t hunch or make yourself small as this implies being uncomfortable. An old trick is to pretend that there’s a thread pulling you up, running from the top of your head to the sky.”
2. Smile more
As well as boosting your own mood, smiling can convey that you’re a warm and confident person. “You only get one chance to make a first impression so a winning smile is key!” confirms Richard Freke, Managing Director at H2R Selection. “There’s nothing like a smile to put both you and the other person at ease straight away.”
3. Dress to impress
As a young woman, Funda Yakin, Director of Media and Market Development for InnoGames, held positions of power early on in her career. When some of her older peers didn’t take her seriously, Funda used her wardrobe to cultivate confidence. “Don’t just wear an outfit, use it to help you,” she says. “If you feel good in your appearance, you will automatically be more confident, so I always wear a certain pair of shoes that make me feel confident for important meetings.”
4. Take your time
Author and public speaking coach Shola Kaye advises women not to rush. “Whether you’re reaching out to offer a handshake or to give a warm smile, do so in your own way and in your own time. Being in a hurry can be interpreted as evidence of lack of confidence.” So take a breath and go at your own pace.
5. Nail the handshake
You’ll have to shake thousands of hands over your lifetime, so don’t be embarrassed to rehearse with a friend if you’re concerned about your greeting. Success Coach Lydia Amoah advises “when shaking hands, allow your hand to be firm, but not hard.” Nobody likes a weak handshake, but they don’t like crushed fingers either.
6. Control your fidgeting
Our bodies can sometimes fidget of their own accord, but Funda Yakin reminds us to be aware of what our body language conveys: “Avoid crossing your arms, fidgeting your fingers, playing with your hair or any other nervous ticks you might have. Try to notice what you are doing during your meeting and readjusting as necessary. The more prepared you are, the easier this will be.”
7. Ask questions
Never know where to start a conversation? Shola Kaye suggests that “people love to talk about themselves. A couple of light and easy questions is a great way to let your new acquaintance know you’re interested in what they have to say. Be interested in their response and ask follow-up questions. If your conversation partner seems uncomfortable with being in the spotlight, they may be an introvert. In this case, offer a few tidbits of your own information to help them feel more relaxed.”
