First impressions last so make it a good one

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When you meet someone for the first time, it doesn't take much to make that all-important first impression; some even say it takes only a few seconds. In those moments, the person you're meeting rapidly takes inventory of your smile, your stance, and the overall presentation of yourself. However, you shouldn't be so afraid of new encounters; there are ways that you can ensure that you can make a great first impression. Here are just some of them:

Arrive early

A person who doesn't respect other people's time is hard to trust. When you set up a meeting for, let's say 1pm, you should be there at least 15 minutes before the designated time. Making people wait for you to arrive will definitely leave a negative impression.

Dress appropriately

Dress according to whom you're meeting and what you're meeting for. If it's an important professional meeting, then prepare your best business attire. Your physical appearance says a lot about you before you even get a chance to speak so make sure you're presentable.

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Listen attentively

You have to let the person you're meeting feel like they're important to you by listening when they talk. Make eye contact for the full effect of attentiveness and really listen to what they're saying and not just appear as such.

Talk politely but confidently

Always remember to treat other people with respect and courtesy and they will return the gesture. When you talk, it's also important to project self-confidence and assuredness. Acting nervous can show in the way you converse and may cause the person you're meeting some discomfort.

Smile

Use your best asset to make a great first impression. Your body language speaks volumes about who you are, so do it with a smile. It will make you appear approachable, friendly, and easy to get along with.

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Hi, I am Lou Habash and I'm an image consultant based in California. For more tips on improving your image, follow me on Facebook.

Beyond the looking glass: On image consulting and its importance today

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Since time immemorial, humans have been very conscious about how they appear to one another. The reasons were initially biological – attracting an ideal mate, at the primal level, follows a display of physical endowments. The sexual attraction could lead to a relationship that would hopefully nurture strong, healthy children.

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Nowadays, however, the image we present to the world has become less about biological fulfilment but an encompassing need to fully integrate into society. In fact, it can be argued that it is more important than ever to present a pleasing image to our peers.

Despite this, most people still hesitate to hire an image consultant, believing that only wealthy people or celebrities require this type of service. This could not be farther from the truth. Image consulting can help people gain more confidence and could potentially lead to a higher pay, desirable employment status, or even increased happiness.

If you find yourself shaking your head in disbelief or even questioning my intentions, don’t worry. I’ve heard all these doubts before. But that doesn’t mean that what I said was a lie. Based on my experience as a long-time image consultant in some areas in California, I understand how a fresher look can significantly increase confidence. It is not the clothes per se that make the person but rather how you carry yourself as an overall package.

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The goal of image consulting is to make you feel good about yourself, which in turn leads to you being more assertive in the more important areas of your life. It is not unknown for women to get into a better relationship or even acquire a higher paying job after changing their appearance. However, bringing out an attractive nature is an image consulting task that also extends to males.

With a new look, you get people to notice you in the right way. Remember that impressions are made within the first few seconds of an encounter. You cannot afford to let other people have a negative perception of you just because you weren't conscious enough of how you were coming across.

Become more confident by following image improvement advice on this Lou Habash Facebook page.