Leave a good impression

First impressions are extremely important. A very easy aspect of a first impression for us to take control of is our appearance. We feel in control when we look good, where we’ve made conscious and active decisions to do so. Conversations can also be sculpted with active decisions and proper preparation. Why is it the first thing that we think about when going to an event is what should I wear instead of what should I talk about? Appearance is important, but what we say and how we say it can leave a much deeper impression. 

Some impressions last much longer than others

The closer you are with the group, the less you're going to need to engage in preparation to keep the flow of conversation going. As your history with someone increases, so does the ease of conversation. However, the less you know about the individuals at an event, the more you should focus on what you want to say and how you’re going to say it. Is there an interesting individual you want to answer a question? Is there a recent achievement you can congratulate someone on? 

At least they tried

Serious account managers will often have conversation cheat sheets on their clients so that they can keep conversation effortless. Instead of thinking of each new conversation as its own individual discussion, they pick up from the last conversation, which leaves their clients feeling engaged and their relationships seeming genuine.

A very trustworthy fellow

Remembering the last thing you spoke about with a person is an easy entry into past conversation. But if you thought of your 5 closest friends right now, could you recall anything? What about acquaintances you’ve seen only a couple of times throughout the years. Could you remember anything about those conversations? It is useful to write conversations down, to leave you prepared for your next important meeting. You should always know who needs a good impression, and you should know how to give one.