If you have any sort of introverted qualities, you probably understand that it can take quite a bit of work to muster up the courage and energy to take that first meeting or introduce yourself to someone new. According to the team at our Florida advertising agency, the first impression you make on a person is the first impression they will carry with them for the rest of their lives. So, if you want to make it anywhere in the business world, that first impression has to be a good one.
Luckily, I’ve learned to beat that introversion, and you can too. All it takes is a little bit of practice and as much confidence as you can muster, using a few of our recommended branding strategy tips that make an awesome impression:

Tip 1: Address Your Appearance

You might be the best tech entrepreneur in the world, but no one is going to know that if you don’t look the part. Get a haircut, trim that beard and wear your nicest jacket if you want to leave a strong impression. While there are exceptions to this rule (think of Mark Zuckerburg and his infamous hoodie), wait until you’re already at that level until you decide you can start dressing down. Looking like a million bucks will also help you feel like a million bucks, so don’t be afraid to splurge just a little in the name of good style.

Tip 2: Stand Up Straight

Years of sitting in front of a computer may have left you with an awkward slouch. Make a conscious effort to stand up straight. Doing this will not only make you look more confident, but will psychologically make you feel more confident as well. Along the same lines, be conscious of your actions and try to avoid fidgeting, as this comes across as anxious and excitable.

Tip 3: Get a Good Night’s Sleep

You ever have any of those days where you’re sitting in a meeting and you started dozing off because you’d been working until 2 a.m. the night before? In our culture, we’re taught to value hard work, but that doesn’t mean you can’t sleep and can expect to get through the day on coffee and M&Ms. Getting a good night’s sleep will give you a clear head, which will keep you bright eyed for your important meeting with the person who might just hold the key to your future.

Tip 4: Smile and Make Eye Contact

Smiling is another one of those psychological tricks a person can pull to make himself or herself and those around him or her feel better.[quote]Even if you have to force it at first, the act of a smile can help trick the mind into establishing feeling of happiness.[/quote] Also, making eye contact establishes rapport, and excellent rapport is ultimately the key to leaving a great first impression.

Tip 5: To Leave a Lasting Impression, Always Follow Up

This is by far the easiest thing a person can do. You had a great meeting, so within less than 24-hours, make sure you’re still on the person’s radar by shooting a quick note to thank the person for their time. It’s as easy as pie, right? But you’d be surprised how many people neglect to take this vital step.

For more ideas on how to impress those around you, contact us today to be wow’d!