When it comes to first impressions, I have always been told that they’re everything. You can’t redo a first impression, so they can make or break you in your personal life as well as your professional life.
Why They’re Important
First impressions are very important for a number of reasons. During your first impression, it is very important to present yourself the best way you possibly can. You are not always just representing yourself. Sometimes you’re also representing the company you work for! If you are standoffish, have a negative attitude, or even give off negative body language, you may have a negative first impression. People are able to pick up on those cues, and if you are not careful they could suspect they are the problem. It’s a first impression, they don’t know your whole story. They might not be able to tell that they aren’t the reason you are upset! This is why it is always best to give off positive energy and good vibes from the moment you come in contact with someone new. This prevents most misunderstandings that can happen!
What Counts as a First Impression?
First impressions do not always happen in person. They can also happen over the phone or even via email. Regardless of how you may come into contact with someone, it is always best to be polite, courteous, and personable. This is definitely a huge factor as a professional because it can be the first stepping stone in building a relationship with potential clients! When working it is always best to keep a bright, positive attitude. Be sure to not give off negative vibes because when you’re at work you are not only representing yourself but the company as a whole.
Who Does it Impact?
If a client comes in and they have a negative interaction with you, you’re not only making yourself look bad, but you are a reflection of the company. As a result, the client may not come back, could give a negative review, or could even tell other people about their terrible experience which could have a troublesome effect on the company. However, if a client comes in and you are attentive, friendly, and are willing to happily assist them with all of their needs they are likely to come back, leave a positive review, or refer their friends and family because of the great service they experienced with you!
First impressions may not seem like a huge deal, but how you handle the situation can have a huge impact on you and your team. If you treat every client pleasantly and are attentive to their needs, there is no way you shouldn’t be able to gain new recurring customers. That my friend is the power of a first impression!