Making a great first impression is the goal of every business owner. We want our audience to like us, to feel good about us, and to want to know more about us. That first impression is key to making it happen, but when we only have seven seconds to make that first impression, we need to make sure we’ve got our game goin’ on. 

We’ve got seven tips to help you make the most of those seven seconds when you are first meeting someone. 

Smile 

Flash those pearly whites! A smile helps to relax you and the other person. But use caution here to make sure your smile is an authentic, comfortable smile. Your facial expression is going to say so much about you, that you want to make sure you appear genuine and confident.  

Be Concise 

Know what you are going to say, and say it. Keep it focused, on topic, and short. If you start rambling you are going to lose interest. If you want to know more about creating that perfect introduction pitch, we’ve got just the right thing for you. 

Speak Clearly 

A couple ums and ahs are a normal part of speech, but when you’re dropping them into every sentence, it gets a little much. Beware of filler words and your intonation. The more clearly you speak, the more confident you will come across. 

Make Eye Contact 

Look the other person in the eye. Not in the creepy-intense way, just in the nice hold-their-gaze way. Avoiding eye contact can raise red flags for people, as it sends the vibe of being shifty, nervous or rude. As the conversation moves forward, be sure to regularly make eye contact for a few seconds at a time.  

Shake Hands 

The handshake. While people seem to have varying opinions on it these days, it’s important to remember that in the realm of business, the handshake is a universal sign of professionalism, confidence, and respect. Practice your handshake with someone you like to work on getting the right ‘grip’…not to tight, not to loose. And if you happen to have clammy hands (it happens!) keep a tissue in your pocket that you grasp to help dry up those palms before you extend your hand. 

Show Interest 

It’s not just all about you. Make sure the person on the other side of the handshake feels noticed. Show interest in what they have to say, ask questions, and respond to their comments appropriately. While your goal is to get that person to know about you, if you are looking for a potential client you want that person to feel heard and understood. 

Make the most of your first impression. We rarely get a second chance. No matter the circumstances of how we are meeting someone, remember these quick seven tips to help ensure that the impression you are making is a good one that will last. 

Looking to up your networking game? Check out our Networking Blueprint over in our Kits + Courses. According to one customer, she went from dreading networking to enjoying it. “It allowed me to see that I could make in-person networking what I wanted, and I could set the boundaries.” Sound like something you need? Head over to our shop!