ARE YOU MEMORABLE?
by Emily Huling
There's nothing more flattering than being remembered - for the right reasons, of course. Why do some individuals always leave a favorable, unforgettable impression while others are faces lost in the crowd?
Positive personal presence is the reason. Personal presence emanates from a person's energy, attitude, alertness, and interest in other people. Luckily, all of us can learn everyday behaviors that create this powerful connection. Here are just a few that affect how you're perceived:
Posture. Your body position should be open and inviting to your colleagues. Stand tall, with your shoulders relaxed and parallel to the floor. Your chin should tilt slightly outward, away from your neck. Your arms should be relaxed at your side, with your hands out of your pockets.
Smile. A slightly upturned mouth is an approachable look. Your eyes shine when you smile and make others feel as if you're welcoming their conversation and thoughts.
Eye contact. Keep your eyes focused on the person you're talking to. During a conversation, darting eyes make the other person feel as if you're looking for someone or something more interesting.
Firm handshake. Every man and woman should have a firm handshake. Forget the ladies' handshake your mother taught you, in which you only touch a woman's fingertips. Here's a trick for consistent handshakes: Open your right hand with your thumb pointed up and extend your hand to the other person, linking your hand to theirs in the same fashion. This is a web-to-web grip. Give one quick pump, make eye contact, then release. If you're sitting when someone offers you their hand, always stand and squarely face the other person when you shake hands.
Remembering names and personal facts. It's as simple as this: Remembering and saying a person's name makes them feel important. Not good at remembering names and personal information? Use these three tips:
- Start telling yourself that you're good at remembering names.
- Repeat the person's name when you're introduced, and use it in your conversation.
- Make a mental note connecting the name with a personal fact or characteristic.
If possible, make written notes to really reinforce your memory. People are more likely to remember you if you remember them.
Appropriate attire. In today's dress-down world, what is appropriate professional attire? There are many answers, so ask yourself this question: Do you appear to others to be serious about doing business? Some companies have two standards - casual dress for working in the office and traditional attire for working with customers. That's fine. But how casual is too casual? Be careful that the image you portray doesn't undermine your effectiveness. I maintain that your co-workers - your internal customers - are worthy of the same presentation as your external customers. Slipping a blazer over casual attire will make a difference in the way you're perceived. No matter what clothing you wear, be sure it's good quality, well pressed, and well fitting. An appropriate polished look is memorable.
Personal hygiene and ornamentation. Be sure that your body's presence doesn't precede you or linger after you leave. Apply fragrance sparingly, and have sweet-smelling breath. Jewelry should be worn tastefully and shouldn't overpower you. As a general rule, when in doubt, don't wear it.
Impressions are made in a matter of seconds. Take the time and effort to present yourself at your best. Your attention to these details will contribute to lasting positive relationships that will enhance your business success.
Emily Huling, CIC, CMC, is president of Selling Strategies, Inc., which helps the insurance industry increase sales, improve customer service, and improve the bottom line. She can be reached at P.O. Box 200, Terrell, NC 28682, (888) 309-8802, fax (888) 398-7355, e-mail [email protected], or Web site www.sellingstrategies.com.