How Important Is a First Impression in Business?

Humans depend on first impressions and they are often very hard to correct. No matter how much you try not to judge someone based on the first meeting, you start to create opinions from the first second you meet a person. While this might not concern you otherwise, in business, first impressions can make a difference between signed contracts and dropped partnerships. So how exactly important are first impressions and how can you make great first ones?

How Important Is a First Impression in Business?

Humans depend on first impressions and they are often very hard to correct. No matter how much you try not to judge someone based on the first meeting, you start to create opinions from the first second you meet a person. While this might not concern you otherwise, in business, first impressions can make a difference between signed contracts and dropped partnerships. So how exactly important are first impressions and how can you make great first ones?

Be professional

It’s good to treat the people opposite you like normal human beings, but that doesn’t mean they don’t deserve the utmost respect. Show off your professionalism by being on time for your meeting—this shows your attention to detail, great time management skills and respect towards people who work with you. Watch out for what you say and try to keep the conversation professional instead of discussing any touchy subjects like politics, religion, etc. Finally, ensure your website is in top shape in case your clients want to check you out, too.

Show off your competence

In order to set a good first impression and show off your value, make sure to have the chance to demonstrate your knowledge and competence. It’s important to learn a few things about your potential client, partner or boss. Do your homework, study their business and come up with a few ways you can help them with issues that they might be facing. Preparing for your meeting is always a much better approach than winging it.

Minimize distractions

Today, we’re always surrounded by distractions that can steal your attention, but try your best to minimize them during your first meeting. For instance, leave your phone in your pocket and put it on vibrate. If you’re expecting an important phone call or email, mention the fact to the people you’re meeting in advance—they surely won’t mind the brief interruption if they expect it because business is business. Excuse yourself politely yet keep the phone call short. This behavior shows that you respect the people around you, have good time management skills and listen attentively to what they have to say—it’s a great way to build confidence and mutual respect between parties.

Be respectful

When setting up the first meeting, make sure to choose neutral ground that won’t offend your guests. It’s important to choose an appropriate restaurant that celebrates your guests’ culture in a respectable and authentic way. If your meeting is on the more casual side and you want to treat your guests to something authentically Latin American, book a table and enjoy the best burgers in Miami in a relaxed and positive atmosphere. Your choice of venue can ensure your meeting goes well and you set the right tone for your meeting.

Dress up

Clothing might not make a man, but it does make first impressions. People are visual creatures and we form opinions quickly, often judging a book by its cover. If you want to stand out, dress more on the formal side—it’s better to be overdressed than underdressed. The most important thing though is to be clean, groomed and perfumed. The state of your personal hygiene tells a lot about how you treat details in your work and how dedicated and caring you are towards your clients.

Demonstrate openness and enthusiasm

No matter if you’re meeting a potential employer, client or partner, it’s important to keep a positive attitude. Be an attentive listener who asks smart and unique questions that show interest in your co-speakers business. If you show off your enthusiasm, you will leave a good first impression and make people eager to welcome you into their team. Why would someone want to work with a person who doesn’t care about the meeting, their partners and their job?

Practice your body language

Body language has a strong influence on how people perceive you—it helps people form subconscious impressions and opinions. Make sure to be open and approachable but also confident. How to achieve that impressive image? Keep your back straight, your arms relaxed and your head held high. Maintain eye contact and give visual clues that you’re listening carefully. When speaking, use a clear and confident voice. A smile is also always a great idea, especially when meeting and saying your goodbyes.
A good first impression can convey that you’re a professional, hard-working, detail-oriented, honest and open person. And who doesn’t want to have someone like that in their team? Success is almost guaranteed.