Women's Life Link Be Well, Be Happy, Be YOU!
Meeting new people can be somewhat nerve-wracking, especially if you’re not sure how to make a positive lasting first impression. Of course, having self-confidence and believing in your ability to communicate go a long way to set the tone. There are, however, some other tricks that can make the experience better for both you and the people you meet.
Make A Positive Lasting First Impression #1: Balance the Conversation
There are two things to watch out for when talking to someone for the first time: First, don’t talk too much, and, second, don’t talk too little. Finding a balance in a new conversation is imperative if you want to make a good impression. This is especially true for business-related conversations. You want to appear confident and knowledgeable. Even if you don’t know much about the topic, you can share your view or desire to know more openly. This helps you to be engaged and interested in the person and conversation without being a know it all. Steer clear of “hogging” the conversation. This type of dominance makes people feel as though they don’t matter.
Another way some people practice meeting new people is via the web. Chat lines are a brilliant way for you to do this without the awkward face-to-face meeting. If you hit it off with someone, you can always meet later on.
Make A Positive Lasting First Impression #2: Be Clear, Attentive, and Confident
One of my favorite sayings is this: “Say what you mean, and mean what you say.” It’s important to be clear about what you’re saying to others. If you are not clear about something yourself, don’t say it. Confidence in a conversation comes genuinely when you know what you’re talking about. That said, you can also be a confident listener. Use good eye contact and do not allow yourself to get distracted by other people, your phone, or what is going on around you. People want to be heard as much as you do.
Make A Positive Lasting First Impression #3: Be Unique
The number one thing that helps others to remember you in a positive light is being unique without reservation. This goes hand-in-hand with confidence. Your quirky laugh or way you twist your hair when you talk are things that make you unique and are even endearing. Your sense of humor is another thing that can really help others to instantly like you. If you are confident enough to tell a funny joke, let it come out at an appropriate time. Meeting new people doesn’t have to be awkward if you remember that they are also meeting you for the first time. Break the ice with your willingness to be yourself and transparent.
Make A Positive Lasting First Impression #4: Be Yourself
When you meet someone for the first time, such as a first date, it can be tricky to know what to wear. I recommend finding a balance between comfort and style. Your clothes are meant to be functional but also an extension of your personality. I like to dress how I feel, considering the occasion, of course. Think about how you want others to see you as well. Using the first date as an example, how do you want this new person to view you? Your outfit can send a message whether you want it to or not.
