The Partner Newsletter

Hey what’s up!

In today’s episode, we’ll be discussing the importance of first impressions. They say first impressions are last impressions, because the first time you meet someone, you give them a lasting memory of you. As I meet more and more people, I realize that human beings are built to size each other up quickly. We meet someone, and immediately have a feeling towards them. These first impressions are influenced by a number of factors, such as facial shape, vocal inflection, attractiveness, and general emotional state. People tend to get attached to their initial impressions of others and find it very difficult to change their opinion, even when presented with lots of evidence to the contrary. So, how can we create better first impressions of ourselves? Here are 8 great tips!

1) Be on Time: Someone you are meeting for the first time will not be interested in your "good excuse" for running late. Plan to arrive a few minutes early, and allow flexibility for possible delays in traffic or taking a wrong turn. Arriving early is much better that arriving late, and is the first step toward creating a great first impression. 

2) Present Yourself Appropriately: Of course, physical appearance matters. The person you are meeting for the first time doesn't know you, so your appearance is usually the first clue they have to go on. Being overdressed is better than being underdressed.

3) Be Yourself: Yes, making a good first impression does mean you need to "fit in" to some degree. However, it doesn't mean losing yourself or pretending to be someone you're not. The best way to create a good impression is by being your authentic self. Doing this will make you feel more confident, help you to build trust, and earn the respect and integrity from the people you meet.

4) Have a Winning Smile: As the saying goes, "Smile and the world smiles too." There is nothing like a smile to create a good first impression. A warm and confident smile will put both you and the other person at ease. However, don't go overboard with this – people who take this too far can seem insincere.

5) Be Open and Confident: When it comes to making a good first impression, body language can often speak louder than words. Use your body language to project appropriate confidence and self-assurance. Stand tall, smile, make eye contact, and greet with a firm handshake. All of this will help you to project confidence and encourage both you and the other person to feel more at ease.

6) Use Small Talk: Conversations are based on verbal give and take. It may help you to prepare some questions for the person you are meeting beforehand. Or, take a few minutes to learn something about them. For instance, do they play golf? Do they work with a local charitable foundation? Do you have anything in common with them? If so, this can be a great way to open the conversation and to keep it flowing.

7) Be Positive: Your attitude shines through in everything you do. So, project a positive attitude, even in the face of criticism or in the case of nervousness.

8) Be Courteous and Attentive: Set aside modern day distractions, for instance, by turning off your phone so that you can give the person your full attention. Also, don't get sidetracked by other people.

Think of first impressions as a building block for relationships—they play a major part in setting the tone for future interactions. Making a good first impression is a great start, so be on time, be yourself, be confident, and be happy. If you follow these simple things, you’ll be remembered!

Sunday Snacks!

This Week’s Snack

Better Bagel

Website Link

https://eatbetter.com/

My Favorite Flavor

Classic

Why I Like It

5g net carbs. 26g of protein. Clean ingredients. Gets you close enough to the taste of a bagel without the negatives of eating a bagel! I prefer mine with Good Culture cream cheese, or peanut butter and banana.