When I was a kid, Head & Shoulders ran an ad campaign using an old Will Rogers saying as its tagline: “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” While the ad was aimed at people with dandruff, the message holds true for many areas of life. First impressions are crucial.
Most people form an opinion of someone within seconds of meeting them. Unfortunately, if you’ve made a bad first impression, it can take significant effort to undo it. Research suggests it takes several subsequent positive interactions in the same context to overcome a poor first impression. When it comes to networking or interviewing, how many chances do you get to make a positive impression? Just one. So, it’s essential to get it right the first time. Here’s how:
Tip 1: Do Your Homework
Whether you’re attending a job fair, sitting for an interview, or meeting someone in your network, it’s essential to learn as much as possible about the person and the company. Don’t just skim the company’s mission statement on their website—dig deeper. Study the business, its industry, and your field of interest. Ask yourself: What does the company do? How do they operate? What sets them apart from competitors? What challenges are they facing, and how can you help address them?
Doing this achieves two things: (1) It shows genuine interest and allows you to ask thoughtful questions, and (2) It positions you as knowledgeable and prepared, creating the impression that you’re an authority on the topic. This preparation will also help you craft your personalized sales pitch.
Tip 2: Prepare Your Sales Pitch
Whether or not you’re in sales, job hunting requires you to sell yourself. Your goal is to convince employers that you’re the best choice for the role. To do this effectively, tailor your pitch:
Personalize it: Have a general framework for your pitch but adjust it based on the person and company you’re speaking with.
Stay focused: Avoid cramming your entire life story into a minute. Concentrate on how your skills and experience align with their needs.
Practice sounding natural: Rehearse until your pitch feels like a natural part of the conversation. It shouldn’t come across as robotic or over-rehearsed—great actors practice until they can deliver lines effortlessly, and you should aim to do the same.
Tip 3: Dress for Success
It may seem superficial, but appearance matters. People tend to take professionally dressed individuals more seriously. Despite this, many job seekers show up at fairs or interviews in casual attire. First impressions start with how you present yourself.
You don’t need an expensive wardrobe to look professional. With a bit of effort, you can find affordable pieces that fit well. Here are some tips:
- Stick to traditional blues and grays for suits and complement them with solid-colored shirts.
- Ensure your clothes are clean, pressed, and free of wrinkles.
- Pay attention to details—shine your shoes (including the heels), keep accessories minimal, and avoid strong fragrances.
- Finally, take one last look in the mirror before entering the room to ensure you’re polished and ready.
Tip 4: Give a Good Handshake
A solid handshake sets the tone for your interaction. Keep your hand perpendicular to the floor—neither aggressive (palm down) nor submissive (palm up). Match the other person’s grip strength, aiming for a firm but not bone-crushing handshake.
If you tend to have sweaty palms, discreetly wipe your hand beforehand. Fist bumps are also more accepted, so consider this in place of a handshake. A small adjustment can make a big difference.
Tip 5: Use and Read Body Language
Your body language speaks volumes. To make a positive impression, focus on:
Eye contact: It conveys trustworthiness and interest. Balance between looking directly at the person and briefly glancing away.
Smiling: A genuine smile can instantly make both you and the other person feel more comfortable.
Open posture: Avoid crossing your arms or legs, as it can seem defensive. Use gestures with open palms to appear inviting.
Also, pay attention to the other person’s body language. Are they smiling and maintaining eye contact? That’s a good sign. If they seem disengaged, adjust your approach or gracefully wrap up the conversation.
For a deeper dive, The Definitive Book of Body Language by Allan and Barbara Pease is an excellent resource.
Tip 6: Use Stories and Visual Language
Stories are far more engaging than a list of facts. When possible, illustrate your points with anecdotes that highlight your skills and experiences. Just ensure your stories reflect positively on you—avoid bad-mouthing past employers or colleagues.
Tip 7: Ask for Their Card and Follow Up
Always ask for a business card during professional interactions—it’s a simple yet often overlooked step.
Within 24 hours, follow up with a brief thank-you note. Make it personal, reiterate your interest, and remind them how you can solve their specific needs. A genuine, well-crafted note can make you stand out from the crowd.
So, go out there and make a strong first impression—one that leaves a lasting, positive impact. Remember, preparation, professionalism, and authenticity are key to standing out in today’s competitive environment.