As anybody involved in business knows, it is important to make a good first impression. When meeting a potential client, you don’t want to do anything that is going to put them off doing business with you. Therefore, that initial meeting is critical. No matter where you are in your career, you need to manage your image and have some understanding of etiquette if you are going to make a good first impression at the meeting. Here are some tips that should be considered essential.

Do your research

Meeting a client for the first time is a little like going to a job interview. You need to do your research into them, the company they work for, and any accomplishments they have acquired. Knowing you have taken the time to gain an understanding of them before the meeting will inspire confidence in the client. Being well-informed will help you, as it will reduce the chances of you making an embarrassing faux pas, such as making an ill-judged comment or opinion.

Arrive in good time

You aren’t going to make a good first impression if you keep people waiting and arrive late. No matter how fantastic your presentation and ideas are, you may be cutting into the client’s busy schedule. As well as annoying them, you won’t have the time you need to deliver your message. Arriving late also means you arrive flustered, so you won’t be in the best frame of mind. Therefore, aim to arrive a few minutes early, giving you enough time to prepare yourself for the meeting, and having some opportunity to relax before you meet your client.

Dress smartly

You need to present a smart, clean image, so choose your outfit carefully. Always aim to wear something formal, unless you learn otherwise before the meeting. Your outfit needs to be comfortable to wear, and well-fitted. Take a look at the suits on Suitedup.com.au for some of the smart options on offer, and find something that will look good on you. Before the meeting, do all you can to look your best. Press your suit, trim your nails, shine your shoes, and don’t forget the deodorant. As soon as you walk through the door, you need to exude confidence, so you need to look your very best if you are going to win over the trust of the client.

Be respectful

From the moment you meet your client, show respect. Shake their hand, give eye contact, and use active listening skills when they are talking to you. Answer any questions honestly, and pay attention to what the client is saying. Don’t be afraid to ask the client to clarify anything you are unsure about, and be willing to learn from them, rather than putting across the attitude that you know best. Stay on target during the meeting, and avoid waffling to your client. Their time is precious, as is yours, so be sure not to aggravate them by wasting time. In short, give the client the same courtesy you would expect to be given to yourself. When you leave, thank them for their time, and make any other arrangements necessary for a further meeting if appropriate.

Final word