No matter what industry you're in, meeting people is a part of the job. Achieving professional growth requires making connections with people and building upon those relationships. But that first impression can have a big impact on your rapport with your co-workers, customers and superiors. Here are some tips to ensure that you immediately make a good impression on whomever you're meeting:
Dress appropriately
It's crucial that you dress appropriately for your industry. Those in a design field may have a more creative wardrobe, but if you're in sales or banking, stick with a nice, crisp suit. You could be saying all the right things when you meet someone, but if your outfit is distracting, that's all that person will remember about you. Make sure what you're wearing is professional and that everything fits well.
Be punctual
You can make a poor first impression before you even get the chance to meet someone. How? By being late. If there is a specific meeting time set, always be sure to arrive a few minutes early. This simple act shows that you're not only responsible, but you're respectful of other people's schedules.
Smile
I would much rather talk with someone who's smiling than someone who isn't. Smiling makes you appear more approachable, and people will remember your friendly demeanor.
Call them by name
I'll be the first to admit that I've forgotten someone's name the second I shook hands with them. This happens to the best of us, but make it a point to remember the names of the people you meet. If you instantly forget, ask a second time. This way, when you run into this person again, you won't be grasping at straws trying to remember their name. When you do meet with them, look them in the eyes and call them by name.
Give a proper handshake
Reaching out and shaking someone's hand firmly can help you appear confident and sincere. Whenever someone shakes my hand with a very weak grip, they come off as unprepared, inexperienced and nervous. Even if you feel shy or anxious, always shake people's hands firmly. That person will never know you're nervous unless you show them.
Discover what you have in common
Common ground is what brings people together and helps us feel connected. Therefore, it's important to find something that connects you to the person you're meeting. Maybe you attended the same college, had similar majors, grew up in the same hometown or even love the same TV show. Connections both big and small are stepping stones to a stronger relationship. You can use online social platforms to do some research on this person before you even meet face-to-face. Use LinkedIn to discover where they went to college and where they worked previously. If you find you have a few things in common from looking at their profile, you can use that as an icebreaker when you finally meet in person. However, you may not want to directly mention that you researched them on LinkedIn. Instead, find a way to hint at the topic.
Be present
It's easy to tell when someone isn't interested in what you're saying, or if they're not paying attention. Always make eye contact and listen attentively to show your genuine interest.