Creating the best first impression in a business meeting!

First impressions can be nervy, right? We’ve all been there; whether it’s meeting your other half’s parents, attending a job interview, or trying to close an important business deal, getting off on the right foot is crucial. Did you know that on average you have just seven seconds to make a good first impression? That’s not long at all — especially when there are so many factors to acknowledge!

We’re here today with Lookers Audi, whom offer a variety of Audi A1 deals to help you portray your professionalism from the onset.

Speak clearly!

Let’s face it, the smoother the meeting, the more likely you are to land that elusive deal! It also allows you to build a relationship via small talk. Speaking clearly enables this to happen, as if they don’t understand you, they won’t engage.

It will be easier to get your point across in a business meeting if you’re speaking clearly, which result in your interview running more smoothly overall. Whatever you do, don’t mumble! Nobody likes needing to continuously ask what it was you said. If this happens, your client could become frustrated, which will take away from all the good that may occur in your meeting. Having an accent won’t matter as long as you are clearly annunciating your words.

Choose your vehicle wisely!

Before you even walk through the door to an interview, first impressions can be made judging by the vehicle you own – so choose wisely if you’re trying to portray a particular image. Audis for example are often stereotypically linked to businessmen and women, meaning that those who drive an Audi A3 are thought to be in the business industry. This can have a positive impact on any potential clients who see you pull up!

Monitor your body language!

Keeping eye contact portrays you as a positive person, while those who avoid eye contact can sometimes be seen as being ‘shifty’ or rude — not ideal for a business meeting. It should be second nature to use positive body language in any meetings, but sometimes this can be overlooked. Throughout your business meeting, be sure to smile, shake everyone’s hand who is in the meeting and keep good eye contact. Smiling will put potential clients at ease, offering a warm impression of yourself, while firmly shaking hands can command respect.

Make sure you’re ahead of time!

America’s former president, Eisenhower, was famous for his ‘when to arrive for a meeting’ philosophy, which meant that if you weren’t 10 minutes early for the meeting, then you were late.

Don’t waste a clients time by not being punctual, as after all, this will ultimately just create a bad impression of yourself. Being early helps avoid unnecessary stress by allowing you to get used to your surroundings and to compose yourself. These factors can be crucial if you need to present to your potential clients.

Dress accordingly!

It might sound obvious, but turning up well dressed to your appointment really can help you go a long way. After all, if the shoe was on the other foot, do you think you would pay attention and sign a contract if the person standing in front of you was unkept?Steer clear of those Converse trainers and ripped jeans — it’s important to dress like the professional you are trying to portray yourself as.

Women can also benefit from tailored clothing of conservative colours and patterns. Dark grey or navy should be staple colours in your outfit choice. For men, make sure you are looking clean and crisp from head to toe. A nicely fitted suit with clean — an emphasis on clean — shoes will give the impression that you are proud of your appearance and are likely to take pride in your client’s needs, too.

If you follow our five tips, you should gain that all important business deal.

Remember, don’t drive a ‘boy-racer’ style car to your meeting, arrive early, dress snappy, be open and friendly, and make sure everyone can understand you! Master these points and you’ll have a great chance of getting the result you are looking for.