The Importance of a Winning Smile in Business

Someone will have judged you in the first three seconds of meeting you. 


Their opinion of you will be formed when they take in how you look, your body language, demeanour, mannerisms, and what you're wearing. Three seconds isn't very long and we all know you never get another chance to make a first impression. 

It's important if we're talking something like a first date - and even more important in business. 

Here are a few tips you might like to try on for size:

• Get wherever you're going on time - it's discourteous to be late and makes you look ill-prepared; leave enough time to find the venue and consider the worst case scenario re: parking or public transport
• Look the part - wear the best quality, fitting clothes you have, pay attention to your shoes, hair, nails (men and women), make-up and accessories, and always dress how you think you would need to look if you get the job/win the deal/join the team
• Give a firm handshake - there's nothing more off-putting than a limp wet handshake!
• Be yourself - don't try and be someone else, it'll show and you'll look and feel uncomfortable
• Be properly prepared - go through the project/job spec/company information thoroughly and rehearse questions and answers out loud. Visualise the venue/interview so that it feels like you've already been there; that way you'll feel less intimidated when you get there. Take all the background paperwork that's necessary and research any statistics or info you need so you don't flounder if asked
• Don't forget to turn off your mobile phone - who wants to hear the Birdy Song ringtone while you're trying to win a big deal or a dream job?!
• Appear calm and confident - believe you'll win and you will
• Be positive - really believe you'll get the business. 
• Be attentive - prepare some sensible questions as it shows you want to get involved and have taken time to find stuff out
• Make eye contact and ... SMILE! 

Did this help? 

Did you get the job or win the business?

Have you got a tale of when it all went horribly wrong which you'd like to share?

Do let me know.