I remember doing sales in High School at the local Sears in Napa. I loved the job and did pretty good at it. Not to gloat but I do have the single highest sales for a sales floor employee in one day (24k). 6k commission for one day is not bad for a high school kid. Of course, it was soon wasted on a new exhaust and rims for my Chevelle lol. Anyways… It was clockwork how many people preferred to buy higher-end appliances or close the deal faster when I dressed and looked professional. I learned early that image is immensely important in business.
Here are 6 easy ways to make an awesome first impression for business.
1. Dial it in
A good haircut happens twice a month, yeah it’s an extra $10 but having a look that you know is good all the time is worth it. Research has proven over and over that a clean well-done look helps the negotiation process go smoother. Even if you don’t wear a suit very often like me have a nice tailored pressed suit waiting in case you need it.
2. Listen
A common mistake business people make is overselling. It is beyond important to shut up, especially at the beginning of the conversation. Not only will help you understand what the person needs but it will help slow down the pace, make things comfortable, and build confidence in the person you are talking to. I even suggest pausing after they stop and just think about what they said. Even if you know the answer, controlling the rhythm can help you see the conversation more clearly.
3. Determine your goal
Before you go into a meeting or talk to a customer, imagine the best outcome you want and keep that in the back of your mind. This will steer the energy of the meeting to that goal without you even realizing it.
4. Be real
No one or business is perfect, stay positive but still let a little bit of ugly come through. If you are too dreamy the person you are talking to might not take you as seriously as if you come off as honest and real.
5. Keep eye contact when making an important point
Obviously staring into someone’s eyes all the time is awkward and can make things feel stiff. But when you coming to a big point or working on the close, always look them in the eye. It will show them you are serious and believe in what you are saying.
6. Keep good posture
Living out of the country in places like China and Costa Rica I learned fast about body language. I learned that bad posture comes off as an insult and a sign of weakness. A good trick is to hold your stomach in a little, this will help posture and build muscle on the inside of your lower back. Arnold Schwarzenegger would do stomach exercises daily to help his stomach tighten up and strengthen the core.
More tips for a great meeting!
- Be On Time: Punctuality shows respect for others’ time and indicates good time management skills. Being slightly early is often better than being exactly on time.
- Dress Appropriately: Your attire should match the context of the meeting or event. For professional settings, opt for neat, tidy, and suitable clothes that align with the company’s culture. In more casual contexts, ensure your outfit is still put together and occasion-appropriate.
- Offer a Warm Greeting: A firm handshake, a genuine smile, and eye contact can set a positive tone for the interaction. In cultures or situations where handshakes are not customary, adapt to the appropriate greeting etiquette.
- Be Attentive and Present: Listen actively to what others are saying without interrupting. Showing that you are fully engaged in the conversation demonstrates respect and interest.
- Mind Your Body Language: Non-verbal cues can speak volumes. Maintain an open and inviting posture, make appropriate eye contact, and nod in acknowledgment to show you are listening.
- Communicate Clearly and Confidently: Speak clearly, at a moderate pace, and be mindful of your tone. Confidence can be conveyed through your speech and body language, but be careful not to come across as arrogant.
- Show Interest in the Other Person: Ask open-ended questions to encourage dialogue. Showing genuine interest in what others have to say can help build rapport.
- Be Yourself: Authenticity resonates with people. While it’s important to adapt to the professional or social context, don’t be afraid to show your true self within those boundaries.
- Follow-Up: After a meeting or event, a brief follow-up message can reinforce a positive impression. It shows you value the interaction and are interested in maintaining contact.
- Mind Your Manners: Basic politeness—saying please and thank you, being considerate of others, and displaying good table manners if food is involved—should never be underestimated.