Create a Great First Impression
By Shital Kakkar Mehra

We say we don't judge a book by its cover but are swayed by presentation all the time. Within minutes, or maybe even seconds, we have made our minds up. Can you make a great impression in the first seven seconds of meeting a person? According to research, seven seconds is the average length of time you have to make a first impression. First Impressions are all about:

• Appearance
• Behavior
• Communication

If you make a great first impression, you can bet that the client is more likely to take you and your clinic seriously.

1. Understand What People Use To Form First Impressions
In your first meeting, you do not have time to waste. It pays for you to understand how people make their first judgment and what you can do to be in control of the results. When you meet someone face-to-face, 93% of how you are judged is based on non-verbal communication - your appearance and body language. Only 7% is influenced by the words that you speak. Clearly, it's not just what you say - it's how you say it!

2. You Are Your Best Visual
Clients will first notice your face, then your hair and finally your feet. Whether you notice these things or not, be rest assured that your clients will! People prefer to do business with people they like – so, be neat, tidy and well-groomed

3. Greet with Finesse
The first move you make when meeting anyone in the workplace is to greet them – it can be a handshake, a “namaste” or the time of the day (e.g. Good Morning or Good Evening). A warm, cheerful greeting is often the beginning of a good business relationship. Offering refreshment like tea/coffee/ water is a part of our South Asian culture and is appreciated by all clients.

4. Use Other Person's Name Quickly
Just a little secret - everybody loves the sound of their own name! When conversing, by using your client’s name initially, you are sending a message that you value that person and their business. However, remember to reserve using first names for casual set-ups only.

5. Choose First Few Words Carefully
Although your words make up a mere 7% of what people think of you in a one-on-one encounter, don't leave them to chance. Words like "thank you", "please", “certainly” can go a long way -say it everywhere, say it to your client, say it to your staff, say it out aloud! Clients appreciate you when you appreciate them.

6. Listen! Listen! Listen!
To cement a new relationship, demonstrate that you fully comprehend the needs of your client/business partner. Listen to what's wanted and summarize and revert with sentences like” Let me see if I understand how you want this treatment to be done".

7. Display Briskness
Studies show that people who walk 10-20% faster than others are viewed as important and energetic! Pick up the pace and walk with confidence - you never know who may be watching!

8. Display Confidence
A smile or a pleasant expression tells people around you that you are glad to be with them. Eye contact says you are paying attention and are interested in what is being said. Leaning slightly forward when speaking makes you appear engaged and involved in the conversation.
In the business environment, you plan your every move yet potential clients pop up in the most unexpected places and at the most bizarre times. For that reason, leave nothing to chance. Every time you walk into your place of work, be ready to make a powerful first impression.