“You never get a second chance to make a first impression.� This is one of those simple truths that everyone recognizes but more often than not forgets. The trick is to make constant awareness of this obvious — but critical — fact an unconscious part of your daily life. Most people, when going into a new situation, try a little harder. But even so, there are a number of things which you can do to improve the image that people grab during the first thirty seconds. It may be in your body language, the business card, the way you are dressed, or the smell of stale cigarette smoke. And that’s just the start: other things like your introduction, the outdoor façade of your company office, the signs or even lack of signs, the “hello� they get at the reception desk, or the appealing, interactive Web site. The list is almost endless. Unconsciously, your contacts mark a one when you do it right, depending their expectations and a zero when something is missing. Even so, a seriously negative point can erase several positive ones. Be aware of that, because much of the future of your new client relationship will depend on the sum of all these small details.

The overall perception of your reputation is of course much more than just first impressions. Customers soon learn to take into account their experiences with you and your company, the way you behave, the emotional connection, your vision and leadership, the working environment, as well as all of the other things that go into building any relationship. Most of the time companies are focused on their products and services. But beware; this is almost never the sole deciding criteria. Consciously or unconsciously, all of your stakeholders have other considerations in mind. Sometimes they are surprisingly personal ones. They want you to talk to them, through your brand, through your image, through your messages, but always supported with proof. Most of this proof is already present in your company but it is often forgotten in the rush to impress.

We all make mistakes; just keep reminding yourself of that. The simple answer is usually the best answer. Constantly strive for a good feeling each time you develop a communication tool. Try to think of a unique way to say what you want your prospect to hear. Ask yourself how you would like to be approached and then do it the same way. Or better yet, with a little something extra added.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, June 26th, 2007 at 2:12 pm and is filed under English. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.