5 answers
Meagan
Student
Ranger, Texas
1
Question
Asked
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What would you say is the most impactful thing when meeting someone face to face for the first time #Spring25?
#Spring25. I am looking for better/ more professional ways to improve myself and my body language/posture when meeting new clients face to face.
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5 answers
Cortina Clarkson, MBA
Business Operations Manager
10
Answers
Knightdale, North Carolina
Updated
Cortina’s Answer
Great day Meagan!
This is a great question that we should all reflect upon. It's always important to be personable in your first encounter. You want to be sure to make eye contact and actively engage in your discusssion. Be sure to remain positive and upbeat and have a few ice breaker questions you can discuss. For example, if you notice something about the person, you could use this to spark a conversation. This would take a certain amount of "reading" the room to gain insight. Always be prepared with general topics which would spark and maintain the person's interest.
You will want to attempt to look your best and appropraite for your environment as your appearance is the first thing people will see. You will want to be clean and groomed as best as you can. You want to make sure your body language is appropriate as well. Make sure you do not fold your arms during the encounter as this can be considered a blocking gesture and may come across as cold. Additionally, depending on your environment, you may want to be aware of cultural norms to avoid offending any one. I hope this helps and best of wishes to you!
This is a great question that we should all reflect upon. It's always important to be personable in your first encounter. You want to be sure to make eye contact and actively engage in your discusssion. Be sure to remain positive and upbeat and have a few ice breaker questions you can discuss. For example, if you notice something about the person, you could use this to spark a conversation. This would take a certain amount of "reading" the room to gain insight. Always be prepared with general topics which would spark and maintain the person's interest.
You will want to attempt to look your best and appropraite for your environment as your appearance is the first thing people will see. You will want to be clean and groomed as best as you can. You want to make sure your body language is appropriate as well. Make sure you do not fold your arms during the encounter as this can be considered a blocking gesture and may come across as cold. Additionally, depending on your environment, you may want to be aware of cultural norms to avoid offending any one. I hope this helps and best of wishes to you!
Autumn Janovich
Operations Support Manager
7
Answers
Jacksonville, Florida
Updated
Autumn’s Answer
Great question! Here are some tips to help you make a fantastic first impression:
Before the Meeting:
- Power Pose: Stand tall with hands on hips or arms outstretched for a few minutes. This boosts confidence and reduces stress.
- Breathe Deeply: Take slow, deep breaths to calm your nerves and focus your mind.
- Visualize Success: Imagine the meeting going well with positive interactions. This builds confidence.
During the Meeting:
- Stand Tall: Keep your shoulders back and head high. Avoid slouching or crossing your arms.
- Firm Handshake: Give a firm but gentle handshake to show confidence.
- Eye Contact: Look at the person's eyes, but don't stare. This shows you are engaged.
- Mirror Body Language: Subtly copy the other person's gestures to build a connection.
- Stay Calm: Avoid fidgeting or excessive movements. Keep your actions smooth and controlled.
Nonverbal Communication:
- Smile: Use a genuine smile and show interest with your expressions.
- Listen Actively: Nod and make small verbal affirmations like "I understand."
- Respect Space: Keep a comfortable distance to respect personal boundaries.
After the Meeting:
- Reflect: Think about your body language and how you can improve.
- Get Feedback: Ask colleagues for advice on your posture and interactions.
- Practice Regularly: Use these techniques often to make them natural.
Extra Tips:
- Dress Well: Wear professional attire to enhance your presence.
- Be On Time: Arrive early to show respect for the other person's time.
- Prepare the Space: Make sure the meeting area is tidy and welcoming.
By following these tips, you'll improve your body language, making a strong and positive impression on clients and building better business relationships.
Before the Meeting:
- Power Pose: Stand tall with hands on hips or arms outstretched for a few minutes. This boosts confidence and reduces stress.
- Breathe Deeply: Take slow, deep breaths to calm your nerves and focus your mind.
- Visualize Success: Imagine the meeting going well with positive interactions. This builds confidence.
During the Meeting:
- Stand Tall: Keep your shoulders back and head high. Avoid slouching or crossing your arms.
- Firm Handshake: Give a firm but gentle handshake to show confidence.
- Eye Contact: Look at the person's eyes, but don't stare. This shows you are engaged.
- Mirror Body Language: Subtly copy the other person's gestures to build a connection.
- Stay Calm: Avoid fidgeting or excessive movements. Keep your actions smooth and controlled.
Nonverbal Communication:
- Smile: Use a genuine smile and show interest with your expressions.
- Listen Actively: Nod and make small verbal affirmations like "I understand."
- Respect Space: Keep a comfortable distance to respect personal boundaries.
After the Meeting:
- Reflect: Think about your body language and how you can improve.
- Get Feedback: Ask colleagues for advice on your posture and interactions.
- Practice Regularly: Use these techniques often to make them natural.
Extra Tips:
- Dress Well: Wear professional attire to enhance your presence.
- Be On Time: Arrive early to show respect for the other person's time.
- Prepare the Space: Make sure the meeting area is tidy and welcoming.
By following these tips, you'll improve your body language, making a strong and positive impression on clients and building better business relationships.
Stephanie Walter
Customer Service / Product Manager
1
Answer
Bensheim, Hesse, Germany
Updated
Stephanie’s Answer
Hi Meagan,
Meeting someone face to face for the first time can be a significant moment, and several factors can make a strong impact. Here are some key elements to consider:
First Impressions: The initial moments of a meeting are crucial. A warm smile, firm handshake, and confident posture can set a positive tone. People often form opinions within the first few seconds, so it's important to be mindful of your body language and appearance.
Active Listening: Showing genuine interest in what the other person is saying can make a lasting impression. This involves maintaining eye contact, nodding, and responding thoughtfully. Active listening demonstrates respect and helps build rapport.
Authenticity: Being yourself and showing authenticity can create a deeper connection. People appreciate honesty and transparency, so it's important to be genuine in your interactions.
Preparation: Knowing a bit about the person you're meeting and the context of the meeting can be very impactful. It shows that you care and are invested in the conversation. This could involve researching their background or understanding the purpose of the meeting.
Positive Attitude: A positive and enthusiastic attitude can be contagious. It can make the interaction more enjoyable and memorable for both parties.
Clear Communication: Being articulate and clear in your communication helps avoid misunderstandings and conveys your thoughts effectively. It's important to be concise and to the point, while also being polite and respectful.
Meeting someone face to face for the first time can be a significant moment, and several factors can make a strong impact. Here are some key elements to consider:
First Impressions: The initial moments of a meeting are crucial. A warm smile, firm handshake, and confident posture can set a positive tone. People often form opinions within the first few seconds, so it's important to be mindful of your body language and appearance.
Active Listening: Showing genuine interest in what the other person is saying can make a lasting impression. This involves maintaining eye contact, nodding, and responding thoughtfully. Active listening demonstrates respect and helps build rapport.
Authenticity: Being yourself and showing authenticity can create a deeper connection. People appreciate honesty and transparency, so it's important to be genuine in your interactions.
Preparation: Knowing a bit about the person you're meeting and the context of the meeting can be very impactful. It shows that you care and are invested in the conversation. This could involve researching their background or understanding the purpose of the meeting.
Positive Attitude: A positive and enthusiastic attitude can be contagious. It can make the interaction more enjoyable and memorable for both parties.
Clear Communication: Being articulate and clear in your communication helps avoid misunderstandings and conveys your thoughts effectively. It's important to be concise and to the point, while also being polite and respectful.
Denise Heffron, PSM, PMI-ACP, PMP
Experience Strategy
42
Answers
North Aurora, Illinois
Updated
Denise’s Answer
Hello Meagan,
Great question! From my perspective, the most important thing you can do when meeting a client for the first time face to face would be to make them feel seen, heard, and valued — from the very first moment. This goes beyond a firm handshake. It’s about creating a genuine human connection and showing that you’re fully present.
Some practical tips on how to present confident body language would be:
- Stand tall, open posture – no crossed arms or slouching.
- Firm handshake – match their grip, no limp fish or bone crushers.
- Make eye contact – not a stare down, but warm and steady.
- Smile naturally – it builds trust and shows you're approachable.
Other advice, beyond body language, would be to:
- Use their name early in the conversation: “Nice to finally meet you, Meagan.”
- Reference something personal if you have it: “I loved your recent blog post on…” or “I heard you just got back from Barcelona — how was the trip?”
- Be Present. No phones. No distractions.
- Actively listen — nod, paraphrase, ask follow-up questions.
- Avoid thinking about your next response while they’re speaking.
- Mirror Their Energy (Subtly) ie, if they’re formal, match that tone, if they’re laid-back, ease into that space too. People tend to trust those who feel “familiar.”
- Clarify Intentions Early. Set the tone with a purpose: “I really appreciate your time today — I’m here to listen and understand how I can support you best.”
- Follow Up with Impact. Within 24 hours, send a personalized follow-up message that references something specific you talked about. This shows attention to detail and builds momentum.
Lastly, I would recommend taking a few minutes beforehand to breathe, center yourself, and mentally prep. Confidence starts before you enter the room.
Best of luck to you!
Great question! From my perspective, the most important thing you can do when meeting a client for the first time face to face would be to make them feel seen, heard, and valued — from the very first moment. This goes beyond a firm handshake. It’s about creating a genuine human connection and showing that you’re fully present.
Some practical tips on how to present confident body language would be:
- Stand tall, open posture – no crossed arms or slouching.
- Firm handshake – match their grip, no limp fish or bone crushers.
- Make eye contact – not a stare down, but warm and steady.
- Smile naturally – it builds trust and shows you're approachable.
Other advice, beyond body language, would be to:
- Use their name early in the conversation: “Nice to finally meet you, Meagan.”
- Reference something personal if you have it: “I loved your recent blog post on…” or “I heard you just got back from Barcelona — how was the trip?”
- Be Present. No phones. No distractions.
- Actively listen — nod, paraphrase, ask follow-up questions.
- Avoid thinking about your next response while they’re speaking.
- Mirror Their Energy (Subtly) ie, if they’re formal, match that tone, if they’re laid-back, ease into that space too. People tend to trust those who feel “familiar.”
- Clarify Intentions Early. Set the tone with a purpose: “I really appreciate your time today — I’m here to listen and understand how I can support you best.”
- Follow Up with Impact. Within 24 hours, send a personalized follow-up message that references something specific you talked about. This shows attention to detail and builds momentum.
Lastly, I would recommend taking a few minutes beforehand to breathe, center yourself, and mentally prep. Confidence starts before you enter the room.
Best of luck to you!
Barbara Almeida
Business Development Representative
3
Answers
Dublin, County Dublin
Updated
Barbara’s Answer
1. Look in the eye
2. Be polite and respectful
3. Listen
4. Ask open questions
5. If possible, have an agenda and have some research done on the person's profile
6. If applicable do a follow up message/email
7. Take notes and let them know in the beginning you will do so
2. Be polite and respectful
3. Listen
4. Ask open questions
5. If possible, have an agenda and have some research done on the person's profile
6. If applicable do a follow up message/email
7. Take notes and let them know in the beginning you will do so