You’ve heard it before and you’ll hear it again: You only have one chance to make a good first impression.
Some say that you have as little as 10 seconds to make that impression. Others give you anywhere from 30 seconds up to a couple of minutes. Whatever the amount of time, it’s important that you make the most of it, because those first moments are some of the most critical to a successful presentation.
Here’s what to keep in mind when it comes to making a good first impression.
- Dress appropriately. Make sure that your clothing fits well and that it is neat and clean. And make sure that you’re comfortable. It won’t matter how well you are dressed if you’re constantly fidgeting with a tie that’s too tight or a shirt that just won’t stay tucked in. Plus, looking good – and feeling good – are natural confidence-boosters. So dress to impress!
- Walk with confidence. When you’re called to the stage to give your presentation, don’t look down at the ground, slouch your shoulders or shuffle your feet. Do keep your head up, keep your back straight and take purposeful strides. Your body language speaks volumes, and by standing tall and walking purposefully you demonstrate both confidence and authority.
- Smile and make eye contact: these are two of the best ways to make and maintain a connection with your audience. Try to avoid overly reading from notes. Every time you look down you risk losing the audience’s attention. Instead, pick out a person in the crowd and look at him or her for a few seconds while you speak. Then move on to someone else in another part of the room. Throughout your talk, try to make eye contact with as many people as possible – this way both you and your audience will feel connected. And smiling will let them know how happy you are to be there.
- Have a solid opening. The opening line of your speech is the one moment where you know you have everybody’s attention – so make it a good one. And learn it by heart. Draw the audience in with a voice that is loud and clear, but also warm and compelling. Try to keep the intro light: A short joke or amusing anecdote can be a great way of capturing the audience’s attention. Just be careful not to say anything that might alienate or offend anyone in the crowd, or you’ll lose them for the rest of the talk.
- Finally, practise, practise, practise. Practise what you want to say, from beginning to end. Practise your delivery and practise your body language. Even practise your handshake! The more you’ve rehearsed the more confident you’ll feel, and the more confident you feel the better first impression you’ll make.
How do you prepare for making a good first impression? Share your tips with us on the Inspiring Speakers Facebook page.
