Ken’s Metaphors for Success #9:
Making a great first impression is a lesson well learned. Your initial impression is what people remember most, like it or not. Here’s #9:
No second chance for a first impression… firm handshake, eye contact
First impressions are what people (Customers and Employers) remember. Make your first impression, your best impression, every time. When you meet someone for the first time, always greet them cheerfully, with a firm handshake, and make eye contact. It speaks volumes as to the type of person you are. If I meet someone initially, with a limp handshake, who won’t look me in the eye, I’m far less impressed, certainly as a potential Customer or Employer. If you have tattoos, or piercings conceal them. Choosing to do otherwise will nearly always limit your opportunity, depending of course on the person you are trying to impress. Remember I’m talking about people, upon whom, your career and livelihood will depend on. I would throw punctuality in this mix as well. I jokingly tell my kids that “80% of success, is showing up, prepared, and on time”.