If you’d like to make a REALLY good first impression - do this first...

Making a good first impression goes beyond a firm handshake and a warm smile...

One of the most effective things you can do is to stop talking. Ann Demarais, author of “First Impressions,” says most of us tend to talk too much at first – especially if we’re nervous. It’s a good idea to have a few questions ready that require more than a one-word answer. Don’t worry about what you’ll say next – just listen, it will come.

Once you’ve got the conversation going – you’ll want to avoid some common mistakes. Skip the long story you might think is interesting – or you could come across as self-absorbed and boring. Leave out some details, they’ll ask if they’re interested. Also, avoid dominating the conversation with humor and jokes, another common nervous reaction; it can be tedious and draining for the other person to keep the chuckles and smiles coming.