HOW TO MAKE A GREAT FIRST IMPRESSION IN BUSINESS
August 9, 2019 / by Marco / Categories : Business
If a client feels as if they cannot trust you, it doesn’t matter how good your service is or whether you’ve got a superb product, they are still unlikely to invest in your business. It is, therefore, imperative to make a positive impact when you meet them for the first time.
The first meeting will not only allow them to put a face to your name, but it could also determine your future relationship. To ensure they remember you for the right reasons, read the below tips on how to make a great first impression in business.
Arrive in Style
Arriving in a rundown vehicle or via a bus will project the wrong impression to a client. If you want to establish yourself as both successful and professional, you must ensure you arrive at a meeting in style.
For example, you could arrange for a business car service from Green Tomato Cars to transport you to and from your meeting, which will provide a client with a great first impression before you have even stepped out of a vehicle.
Be Mindful of Your Body Language
Many people don’t give their body language a second thought when talking to potential clients, but it could determine whether you make a positive or negative impression.
It is vital to be mindful of your body language when meeting with customers for the first time, so you must become more aware of your:
- Posture
- Arm positions
- Facial expressions
For example, to prove to others you are listening, you should thoughtfully stroke your chin. You also must avoid crossing your arms or legs, which can non-verbally suggest you’re not interested in what they are saying. Instead, attempt to match a client’s posture and tone of voice, which can make them feel more at ease when talking to you.
Make Eye Contact
Establish instant trust by making eye contact with a client when you first meet. It will not only ensure you appear friendly and honest, but it will prove you are interested in them. So, ensure you look them in the eye when you are talking to them, and avoid looking away or downwards, which can make you appear shifty or uninterested.
Remember to Smile
Even if you are having a bad day, you must remember to smile during a client meeting. A sincere smile will make you appear friendly and approachable, so they’ll be more likely to discuss their needs and strike up a pleasant conversation. It can be the key to developing a strong professional relationship, which could lead to you securing a project or contract. So, leave your bad day at the door when you enter a meeting.
Talk with Purpose
It’s likely your clients will have busy schedules, so will want to quickly learn about who you are, what you do, and how your products or services can benefit their business. For this reason, you must avoid lengthy stories or endless chatter, which can lead to frustration, and instead keep the meeting simple yet helpful. So, listen carefully to their wants and needs, breakdown the benefits of your services, and remain friendly and helpful, and you’ll likely return to your office with a brand-new contract.
Marco / admin / 30 Nov
Writing day to day ramblings about making money, business, technology, sharing awesome deals and everything else that I know I'll forget. Follow my personal blog https://marcotran.com.au
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"When technology speaks for itself, that is art" - MT
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