

Think of how unappealing it is talking to someone when they are constantly looking over your shoulder at what else is going on in the room. Why? Simply put, it shows you truly want to speak with them. 3) Make eye contact.īehind a handshake and a smile, eye contact is the third, and arguably the most important part of making a solid impression. A simple “Where did you go to high school?” could lead to a great connection: “My college roommate went there, too!” Even introducing them to others will help make them feel you are interested.

Use their name immediately upon meeting and then repeat it a few times in conversation. Isn’t this a great event?” can go a long way toward bridging a simple intro into a full-blown conversation. Where are you from?” or “Wonderful to meet you. People love to talk about themselves, so using phrases like "It’s great meeting you. 1) Smile.Ī smile is so simple to do, yet something we often forget, especially if we’re self-conscious or nervous.Īccording to one study, most people think a smile is the most memorable feature after meeting someone, even more so than what they say. By smiling, you’re showing someone you are both happy to meet them and comfortable around them. Here are some ideas and tips for making a killer impression the first time. So take a few deep breaths, be mindful of the moment, and step in. The better news is that while first impressions matter, so do second, and third, and fourth, and the more you prepare and actually put your best foot (or smile) forward, the easier it will become. The reality is that while you are talking, people are paying attention and already forming an opinion of you. However, it takes most of us more than seven to introduce ourselves. Why? Because we don't want to make a bad first impression. We all know that first impressions matter, and the bad news is that according to one statistic, it only takes seven seconds to make a first impression. Even if you have on your power suit and look dressed to the nines, most of us still get nervous. Let's face it: Meeting someone for the first time can be nerve-wracking.
