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First Impressions: How To Seal The Deal In Seven Seconds

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Can you close a sale in just seven seconds? You can do it even faster if you make a great first impression.  Seven seconds is the average length of time you have to make a first impression. If your first impression is not good you won' t get another chance with that potential client. But if you make a great first impression you can bet that the client is more likely to take you and your company seriously.

Whether your initial meeting is face-to-face, over the phone or via the Internet, you do not have time to waste. It pays for you to understand how people make their first judgment and what you can do to be in control of the results.

1. Learn What People Use To Form Their First Opinion.

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The Two Questions You Should Always Ask in an Interview

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We tend to focus our attention on recruiters and employers when looking for a job, and that makes a lot of sense.  Recruiters, after all, are the gatekeepers.  They determine whether or not we even get in the door to have an interview.  And, employers, of course, deserve a lot of scrutiny as it’s their culture and leadership which determine an organization’s prospects for success (and our future employment).

It’s a logical approach, but it is also insufficient to ensure success.  If our goal isn’t simply to get hired – if what we’re trying to do is get employed and stay that way – then we have to devote as much time and effort to evaluating the one person who will most determine that outcome.  And, that person is our new boss.  They set the conditions under which we will work and they are responsible for ensuring we have the necessary resources and support to perform at our peak. 

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Body Language Speaks Louder Than Words

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Has it ever occurred to you how much you are saying to people even when you are not speaking?  Unless you are a master of disguise, you are constantly sending messages about your true thoughts and feelings whether you are using words or not.

Studies show that your words account for only 7% of the messages you convey. The remaining 93% is non-verbal. 55% of communication is based on what people see and the other 38% is transmitted through tone of voice. So think about it. In the business setting, people can see what you are not saying.  If your body language doesn't match your words, you are wasting your time.

Eye contact is the most obvious way you communicate. When you are looking at the other person, you show interest. When you fail to make eye contact, you give the impression that the other person is of no importance.  Maintain eye contact about 60% of the time in order to look interested, but not aggressive.

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Job Interview Questions: What are Your Weakness?

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This video series was created for students by USC Annenberg, but is sound advice for all  job seekers.