Connection at first sight

Céline Valero
Nov 5 · 3 min read

Have you often asked yourself how you could create a positive first impression? It is not always easy to meet someone you don’t know in a professional context. And it becomes even more difficult if you are not a big fan of small talk! In this case, I understand your apprehension. You mean well but sometimes you feel you’re atypical in the business world.

How could you tackle this kind of challenge? Do not necessarily rush into things, just to get rid of them more quickly! Slow down, you are doing fine. Find your own pace. In order to save time, you could be tempted to sell yourself short. It would be a shame. If possible, do not let anxiety be a pebble in your shoe.

Before the meeting, you can think of what could help you to be successful. For instance, always arrive on time for your appointment. Then, once the meeting has started, you can concentrate on making eye contact with the people in front you. And also remember that you are perfectly allowed to express what you feel. As long as you do it in a polite and authentic way. Screen yourself. When you think of a successful meeting or interview, what does spring to mind?

Maybe it is a good thing to start building trust from the very first minutes of the encounter. Be yourself. Reflect on your attitude. Find the right posture. Do you overplay? Are you for real?! Does anxiety prevent you from being efficient? Asking yourself this kind of questions is already a good move.

And also : be realistic. You cannot be the best version of yourself each time you meet someone. Even if you are talented and ambitious. Sometimes you’re up, sometimes you’re down. And the lows are low. You can be having tough times. If this is the case, concentrate on meeting people whom you can instinctively trust.

Your intuition can be of help in this process of discovery. Whatever happens, you should always remember to show some respect. Even if the meeting seems fruitless to you, you can wish others good luck with their future endeavours. People will appreciate it.

You know that you are a good person. Be proud of who you have become and of what you have already accomplished. Nonetheless, it is better not to appear as a know-it-all. You should not be bragging too much. Nobody likes it. But do not hesitate to be confident. A bit as if you were looking for a dance partner.

In the end, why is it so hard to make a good first impression? How come? Take a step back. Maybe you are overthinking this! Take a chance on people! Just ask for a dance. You never know. If you are subtle enough about it, then maybe they will want you to be in the picture.

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