No matter what we say about never judging people by first impressions, everyone does it! And you never get a second chance to make a first impression. Therefore here are some quick tips for ensuring you create a positive and impactful first impression in any situation.

• Be on Time - Marilyn Monroe once said “I’ve been on a calendar but never once been on time” …….unless you have Marilyn Monroe status, please try to be on time.

• Be yourself but the best version of you – Nothing is gained by trying to claim you are somebody you are not, so just be you but you at your best.

• Look and feel good – Be clean and dressed appropriately for the occasion. Also ensure you have a confident and positive posture. Stand up straight with your chin held high and your shoulders back. By looking and feeling good you will attract positivity and people will want to know you.

• Smile – People tend to mirror other people, so if you smile at the world, the world will smile back at you.

• Be Positive – Try to avoid any form of negative language or suggestions such as moaning or complaining. Would you want to befriend a moaner?

• Be courteous and polite – Remember your manners and ensure you listen to what the other person is saying. It’s always amazing how often people do not listen to names of those they have just met. When hearing somebody’s name for the first time you may like to repeat it back to them, for example “Nice to meet you David”. This will ensure you have listened to their name.

• Maintain Eye Contact – Try to not stare at the other person, but ensuring you maintain eye contact instils a level of trust and confidence in people.

• Offer a Firm Handshake – When meeting anybody new, offer your hand to greet them. By instigating the handshake you will emit an aura of positivity and confidence. Be sure to make it a firm handshake whilst ensuring no bones are broken!

Meeting new people is a fun and exciting experience. By reminding yourself of this whenever you meet new people will help you to come across in the best possible light! By feeling happy and enthusiastic you will attract the same in return from everyone that you meet.