Tips to help you make a great first impression

1. Be conscious of how you’re coming across. Think about how you look and sound when you introduce yourself to people. Introducing yourself is something you tend to do the same way every time. So it’s worth making sure you look right and you’re not doing anything to distract the person.

2. Your facial expressions send out many messages. Your aim is to make sure all these messages are positive. So try to smile and have a positive expression as you introduce yourself. Some people do this naturally because of their personality, others have to work at it.

3. Shake the person’s hand firmly but not too firmly. Some people think it’s impressive to have a really strong grip but it’s not, it actually distracts the person. Try also to make sure you physically engage the other person’s hand properly … don’t just grip their fingers, it doesn’t send out a confident message.

4. You can give a huge amount away with your eye contact. Some people find it really hard to look someone in the eye when they introduce themselves. It’s very important that you don’t fall into this trap. Looking the person directly in the eye tells them you’re confident, you’re comfortable and you’re glad to meet them. Looking away tells them the exact opposite.

5. What do you say when you introduce yourself to people? It’s essential that you tell the person your name. Make sure you tell them your whole name, not just your first name and then listen when they tell you their name. Then remember it and use it when you address them, particularly if it’s a work situation. If you’re the only person in the room to remember peoples’ names, you’ll stand apart from the rest.

6. Try to speak clearly and loud enough. So be conscious of this and practise speaking clearly and slightly louder than you normally might if you see yourself as a quiet person.

7. Be aware of your posture. Some people look apologetic before they’ve even spoken. They stand with their shoulders hunched and head down slightly. Do your best to stand tall. Try to physically pull your shoulders back and raise your chin when you introduce yourself.

8. Dress appropriately for the occasion and look clean and tidy. Be courteous and polite and turn up on time, that way you’ll less likely to look rushed or under pressure because you walk.