Michigan

How to Make a Great First Impression

When you are dealing with clients face to face, you rely on making a good first impression in order to win their confidence. Studies have shown that lasting impressions are made in the first three or four minutes of contact. We spend the rest of the time we know the person - whether it's half an hour or a lifetime - reinforcing or modifying that initial impression. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Offer your name first. Make sure you are speaking clearly enough so you're easily heard and understood. Use pause-part-punch when introducing yourself. My name is (pause) Bob (part the first name from last name) Herrera (punch out your last name so that your client can hear it distinctly). This method helps your client hear it correctly and makes it easier for them to remember your name in the future.

2. Smile - genuinely. This increases your 'curb appeal'. Rapport in business is fueled by seemingly minor considerations, such as a friendly, accessible demeanor and a welcoming smile.

3. Offer information about yourself but play yourself down, not up. Briefly, use your experiences to set the stage for openness.

4. Ask open-ended questions - these could be about their opinions of the event, where they grew up, their hobbies or even their pets. We have many points of commonality with the people we meet. It is up to us to find the commonality and make a real connection.

5. Discover their strength and point it out. Giving a sincere compliment about the positive personality trait along with the reason will show your new acquaintance that you are focused on them - not on yourself.

6. Allow the other person to do a great deal of the talking. Show them respect by listening intently. Yogi Berra said "You can observe a lot by watching" and you can also hear a lot by listening.

A positive first impression paves the way building a solid relationship. It is those relationships that make our lives richer, more fulfilling and more fun. For more information about Bob Herrera or Dale Carnegie Training, visit the website: www.michigan.dalecarnegie.com