How to Make A Good Impression ???

M. N. JHA (CA) (8316 Points)

01 July 2011

Whether you are going for a job interview or meeting with a client, your first impression can literally make or break the deal.

Here are some practical tips to influence people in your favour:

Dress to impress: Dress modestly and appropriately. Ensure that your clothes are clean and well-fitting. You don't want to convey a negative impression even before you open your mouth.

Speak clearly: Speak at a moderate pace with a well-modulated voice. Do not feel hesitant to enunciate properly. Also, use proper grammar and avoid slangs, if you are to make a good first impression.

Use names frequently: Nothing gets other people's attention as effectively as calling them by name. It shows them that you are focusing on them from the very beginning and are giving them enough importance to be able to remember names.

Avoid jokes: Humor is good, if used prudently. A light and simple joke can do wonders to ease the atmosphere and set the mood for a dialogue. However, refrain from cracking offensive jokes.

Be a good listener: During discussion, give the other person subtle signals to let him/her know that you?re attentive. Don't hesitate to nod your head and chip in with an occasional ?I see? or ?I understand,? to convey that you are indeed listening.

Avoid hogging the spotlight: It makes you look selfish and interested only in yourself. Instead, provoke the other person to talk about himself and bask in the spotlight. This will make you seem gracious, and you?ll also learn more about the other guy.

Be aware of your body language: When you meet someone face-to-face, 93 per cent of how you are judged is influenced by non-verbal data, such as your appearance and your body language. Only 7 per cent is influenced by the spoken words.

Fine tune your handshake: Nothing is worse than a limp handshake. So, make sure your handshake is firm. Once your palm has connected with the other palm, close your thumb over the back of the other person's hand and give a slight squeeze. Especially important in a business setting and contributes greatly to the first impression you make.

Carry business cards: Your business cards and how you handle them influence your total professional image. Make sure you keep a good supply of them with you at all times ? you never know when and where you will encounter a potential client, employer or boss.