1 minute read
OF YOURSELF
fit and attractive for longer…
Making A Great First Impression
The phrase ‘first impressions count’ is true – it takes just seven seconds for someone to make up their mind about you. No pressure then! Whether it’s a job interview, a first date or just meeting someone for the first time, here’s how to make a great first impression:
Look the part
How you dress will depend on where you’re going – you’re likely to dress differently for a date than you would for a job interview. Either way, make sure it’s appropriate for the occasion. If in doubt, always dress smarter – showing up well-groomed will boost your confidence.
Say “Cheese!”
Smiling releases endorphins that make you feel happy and have the power to improve your confidence and self-esteem. When you meet someone new, give them a smile. It conveys a sense of control, confidence and approachability – even if you’re not feeling it.
Nail the introduction
If you’re going to an interview, smile, introduce yourself and lead with a strong handshake to every person in the room. It exudes confidence, strength of character and control, and will indicate how you’ll conduct yourself as a representative of their organisation.
Speak up
Lots of people, especially when nervous, have the tendency to speak quickly. Speak clearly and slowly.
Maintain eye contact
It’s sometimes tricky, so if you can’t quite manage to look someone in the eye, focus on the spot at the top of their nose between their eyebrows – it will have the same effect.
Be yourself
Regardless of the situation, always be yourself. It’s really difficult to pretend to be someone you’re not, and it can be quite obvious to others. Represent your personality subtly through your appearance and don’t be afraid to have opinions.