by Andre Hollist

You only have one chance to make a good impression. The first impression may begin with a phone call, them viewing your portfolio, an initial meeting or email. Whatever the method of contact, making a good first impression boils down to how you portray yourself and/or your work.

Your professional conduct, the way you communicate; written, verbal or otherwise, dress, your attitude and the way you present yourself has a huge bearing on how serious the client takes you from that point forward.

In the best of cases, the client doesn't know anything about you or the company you are representing, so the first thoughts/inclinations they have about you is the way you look. Grooming, dress, a clean and tidy appearance is a must in order that you are able to seem 'the part', 'the right person for the job'

Understandably however each client is different so levels of expectation will be different. In this case it is important to try and think about each client individually. If a meeting has been arranged with them, try and think about what they may wear, and what the business setting will be? If you dress accordingly, not only will you feel comfortable in the environment, but so will the client.

Ensuring that you are confident in your speech and that you know exactly what you are talking about means that the client is more likely to believe what you are talking about and feel a lot more relaxed and confident in trusting that what you say you are capable of doing and that you can deliver it on time.

Actions speak louder than words, so be open, take note of your body language ensuring that it is reassuring and relaxed as opposed to nervous, jittery or fiddly. Often the later traits often display a lack of confidence and concentration.

Be positive, showing a can do or willing to do attitude. This does not  mean that you make promises to do things you realise you cant do, put show a resolve to try and find an alternative, or thrash out ideas of how to approach it from a different angle. Maintaining an upbeat vibe to the meeting and being innovative and intuitive keeps the client positive about the project and you.

Also it is important to be attentive, to listen and respond accordingly to the client. Obviously showing an interest in the client helps them to understand that you care and are concerned about their interests. Maintain eye contact when they are talking to you to avoid looking distant.

In cases where first impressions may be a written one, spelling grammar and cohesion in the text are overlooked but important factors. Make sure presentations and portfolios are of the highest standard and that you are confident the client can understand it. Even practice presenting beforehand.

Needless to say however, making a good first impression is only the beginning of the relationship. Just as easy as it is to make a good first impression, it can just as easily be ruined by a bad follow up; not kept promises, not delivering on time or an equally less professional approach.

Treating the client right should be your number one priority. Remember being yourself goes a long way to not only making the first impression a good one, but ensuring all further communication from then on also meets their expectations.