Tips to Making Great First Impressions in Business Networking Events

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It takes only a single quick look for an individual to evaluate you the first time you meet. In this very short time, the individual creates an opinion about you based on your mannerisms, gestures, body language, your clothing and accessories and your looks as a whole.

First impressions are nearly impossible to reverse or undo, making these first meetings very important. So, knowing how to create a good impression is a must be it in career or social life. This article has helpful insights in doing this.

1. Know the culture.
Different industries have equally different standards or customs regarding what is appropriate with about personal appearance and meeting behaviour. For example, wearing a very costly suit to a meeting with a programmer can result to silent ridicule. Likewise, different parts of a certain country, or the world, have diverse traditions. Females in slightlysexy clothing can send wrong message to managers from the Middle East, for example. So prior to your business meetings, make sure you know what is expected.

2. Send clear signals.
Your body language and appearance are the signals that instantly communicate to individuals who tend to create quick judgments based on clothes, facial expressions, accessories, even skin tone, makeup, and watches. Body language is a vital part of first impressions. Often, just by being aware of the position and movements of your body can result to instant improvements. Be mindful about how you position your shoulders and back, where where your feet are pointing, and the way you shake hands with people. Also, don't forget to be approachable. It's important to smile and be friendly. People tend to take one step backward and not approachsomebody who looks inapproachable and intimidating in words and/or in appearance. Be sue that you are consciously making visual signals that communicate that you're the type of individual who is appropriate to do business with.

3. Be interested and interesting.
If you are genuinely interested in meeting people and are open and willing to learn about who they are, they will know this in your first meeting with them. You can almost instantly tell if a person was just dragged by a friend and can't wait to go straight home. When you are meeting new people, sincerely approach them and show genuine interest in who they are. Look at them in the eye to establish a rapport. Do not let your eye and mind wander, instead, offer your complete attention. If you are looking for something or someone else, sending a message through your phone, or answering a call in the middle of your conversation, you will lose them. Often, if you become interested in other people, they will also become interested in you. This attitude will help you create better conversations and more lasting business connections.

4. Use a person's name.
They say that the sweetest music to an individual's ears is his own name. True enough, people love to hear their names, so take the time to memorize their names. This means that you are paying attention from the very start and that you are giving people importance. Use their name immediately to help you remember them.

5. Be real.
There is nothing more terrible than meeting a fake individual. In all circumstances, being yourself is very important. It may not be suitable to be very loud at a corporate networking event even if that is the real you at home, but if you are not fond of fancy things, don't pretend you are. Most often than not, unpretentious individuals are more likable.

And don't forget to give your business cards to those you think you can do good business with in the future. Also, keep in mind etiquette in giving and receiving business cards. To keep your cards neat, clean, and presentable, get a leather business card holder on amazon.