You’ve heard it before: first impressions are everything. People are short on time and quick to remember a fault. Whether you’re dealing in business or a blind date, turning people off is something you cannot afford to do. While we all try our best to make a positive first impression, you may be snubbing someone without realizing it. Put your best foot forward in any encounter by keeping these tips in mind.
- Eyes on me. People tend to be more familiar with a computer screen then a pair of eyes these days. Remember: when it comes to face-to-face discussion, keep eye contact! A quick way to lose someone in conversation is by staring out the window. We’re not talking about a Jedi mind trick stare but let the speaker know that you are truly listening to what they have to say.
- Put down the pen. You have five millions things to do, not to mention the other five million you haven’t thought of yet! This fact can make this second tip difficult but just try to put down the pen. Do your best not to work on other tasks while your attention should be on whomever may be in front of you.
- Shut up! You may be skeptical to think that you interrupt others while talking {or maybe you are a repeat offender}, regardless, keep it in check. It’s very easy to talk over someone in conversation. You may even simply be agreeing with what they have to say. Wait until the speaker has finished a thought before you contribute.
- Give your thumbs a rest. Between texts, alarms, BBMs, emails, etc., your cell phone may be constantly jumping about your desk. Despite these notifications, try not to attend to them when you are meeting someone. Talking to someone’s scalp while they are wrapped up in text messaging isn’t encouraging to anyone. Cell phones are best left in your purse on these occasions unless it’s an emergency {in which case you should advise your companion before answering}.
- What’s-her-face? Two things are easily remembered at a new introduction: a good snub and attention to detail. Strive for the latter and remember details when you are introduced to someone for the first time. Forgetting someone’s name is a typical memory blunder and easily avoided. A good way to store names is to repeat them. When you are being introduced, try to greet the person with their name and make an association {for example, Michelle is your new boss and your cousin’s name is Michelle}.
-Jessica Volpe
