How to Make a Great First
Impression on a New Client
First impressions count for a lot, and you never get a second chance to make one. If you want to turn a client from lukewarm to hot, you need to make a brilliant first impression on them, otherwise they might consider checking out your opposition. Here are some fantastic ways to impress a new client.
Look Professional
You may think that a first impression starts with a handshake, but it doesn’t. It actually starts well before this. Your potential client starts to form an impression about you before they even say hello, so you have to form the right impression straight away. Turning up looking sloppy will make them wonder if your work is sloppy.
You should always attend a meeting looking smart and presentable. Everything from the car you step out of to the shoes you step out in will be under scrutiny, so make sure you look your best. You don’t always have to pay over the odds either, for example, you can look at getting a nice car from a reputable used car showroom such as CarltonCarCentre.co.uk. This will make you look polished rather than flashy. This is an especially good impression if your job involves looking after client money.
Be Punctual
It doesn’t matter how great you look if you are late. Your client already thinks that you don’t care about their business or your timekeeping. You have given them time to wonder whether you can deliver the job on time if you can’t even turn up to the meeting on time. You should give yourself time to get to the meeting but try not to arrive too early. You will make your client feel rushed and flustered if you are too early. Aim to be around five minutes early to give the best impression.
Be Prepared
If you turn up with some of your notes missing, your laptop doesn’t work, and you can’t explain the entire process accurately, then you might as well go home. If you look disorganized, your client will wonder what the finished product might look like, and it won’t be as good in their imagination as it is in yours. Try to prepare everything the night before so all you have to do on the day is double check you have it, take a few deep breaths, and perform your best.
Positive Attitude
A positive attitude will have a positive influence on your clients. If you show enough drive and energy, they will be carried along with you and will be likely to do business. Obstacles can be overcome although sometimes you have to think creatively to do this.
If you are feeling negative, this will rub off on your client too, especially if you are suggesting there could be unforeseen problems. They are likely to ditch you at this point and go elsewhere.
These are just four fantastic ways to make a first impression on a new client. They suggest that you are in control and are great to work with. Try these tips for yourself and see your success soar.
