Today I met someone for the first time and when I shook their hand I could immediately sense their insecurities. It was one of those loose handshakes that made me weary about doing business with them. It's not so much that I didn't trust them, I just like someone to be confident about who they are and feel confident about what they do. When it comes to business I'm sure you've probably heard a thousand times that first impressions mean alot. Within 30 seconds of meeting someone you already know whether or not you're going to do business with them. I don't know about you, but for me it's true.
That said, I really liked Dan Schawbel's post, Every Company Needs a Director of First Impressions. Dan stresses how receptionists play an important role in the company. They're basically "the face" of your company.
Now, the person I met today wasn't a receptionist, but she was one of the first contacts I had with the company she represented. It made me realize that not only do receptionists have to create good first impressions, but that every person within your company has to to be able to make a good first impression as well. After all, at one point or another each person in your company will eventually meet or talk with people/customers.
Get some really good tips on how to make a strong first impression...
Photo Credit: Zach Taylor
I also believe handshakes are very important in business and just in general. I love it when I get a great firm handshake because it feels like the other person and I are on the same page and like Maria said, it is a reflection of their confidence. When in doubt, grip a little harder.
Posted by: Lauren Elder | June 27, 2008 7:13 AM | Permalink to Comment