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How to perfect a first impression in a business meeting.

We’ve all been there. It might have been during a job interview, when you had to meet your partner’s parents,…

How to perfect a first impression in a business meeting

21st September 2018

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We’ve all been there. It might have been during a job interview, when you had to meet your partner’s parents, or in an in important business deal. Getting off on the right foot is crucial. It takes just seven seconds to make a good first impression, according to surveys.  Not long at all, right? It sounds even less when there are so many factors to acknowledge!

Here, we look at exactly what to do if you are to make that all-important great firs impression in a business meeting.


Vehicle choice
It’s often overlooked by many, but sometimes you will be judged before you even enter the building. We’ve all heard of stereotypes revolving around certain types of car, but did you ever think about how this may affect any potential business deals? Audis are often stereotypically linked to businessmen and women, meaning that those who drive an Audi A3 are thought to be in the business industry. This can have a positive impact on any potential clients who see you pull up!


Be punctual
Don’t waste a client’s time by turning up late. If your meeting is planned for a set time, turn up early. America’s former president, Eisenhower, was famous for his ‘when to arrive for a meeting’ philosophy, which meant that if you weren’t 10 minutes early for the meeting, then you were late. Being early helps avoid unnecessary stress by allowing you to get used to your surroundings and to compose yourself. Both of these factors can be crucial if you need to present to your potential clients.


Dress in an orderly fashion
Although it sounds obvious, it’s a factor some people overlook. If you turn up well dressed to your appointment, it really can help you go a long way. After all, if the shoe was on the other foot, do you think you would pay attention and sign a contract if the person standing in front of you was unkept? Probably not, so steer clear of those Converse trainers and ripped jeans — it’s important to dress like the professional you are trying to portray yourself as.

For men, it’s important that you turn up looking clean and well-presented from head to toe. A nicely fitted suit with clean — an emphasis on clean — shoes will give the impression that you are proud of your appearance and are likely to take pride in your client’s needs, too. Women can also benefit from tailored clothing of conservative colours and patterns. Dark grey or navy should be staple colours in your outfit choice.


Body language
This is another point that should be second nature. Be sure to smile, shake everyone’s hand who is in the meeting and keep good eye contact. Smiling will put potential clients at ease, offering a warm impression of yourself, while firmly shaking hands can command respect. Keeping eye contact portrays you as a positive person, while those who avoid eye contact can sometimes be seen as being ‘shifty’ or rude — not ideal for a business meeting!


Pronunciation
It’s important that you don’t mumble when you talk; nobody likes needing to continuously ask what it was you said. If this happens, your client could become frustrated, which will take away from all the good that may occur in your meeting. Having an accent won’t matter as long as you are clearly annunciating your words.

It’s far easier to get your point across if you speak clearly. It will also make your meeting run more smoothly and, let’s face it, the smoother the meeting, the more likely you are to land that elusive deal! It also allows you to build a relationship via small talk. Again, speaking clearly enables this to happen, as if they don’t understand you, they won’t engage.

By following this quick and simple five-step plan, you should improve your chances of landing that all-important business deal. Remember, don’t drive a ‘boy-racer’-style car to your meeting, arrive early, dress snappy, be open and friendly, and make sure everyone can understand you! Master these points and you’ll have a great chance of getting the result you are looking for. 

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Categories: Advice, Articles

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