How do you act when you buy a product in a store?

Are you one of those people who say that they don’t judge a book by its cover?
But are you really being honest with yourself?

How do you act when you meet somebody for the first time? Do you pay attention to his/her general look? I do!

Do you know that in life and more importantly in business you have only 30 seconds to make the right first impression when you meet somebody for the first time?

Yes, in just 30 seconds people will subconsciously make a decision on whether they want to work with you or not. So make that first contact count.

How you dress influences what people think about you?

Working with small business owners for years in France and for the last four years in New York, and now specializing in networking, I have to say that I am always surprised to see how some people dress for networking events or business meetings.

Those who do not dress in suitable business attire are usually the ones who are surprised that their business doesn’t take off.

How do you act when you buy a product in a store?

Let’s say that you are looking at a printer and you have the choice between two brands. The product inside the boxes has the same exact characteristics. So how do you make your choice? Do you choose the one with the less attractive package or with the most attractive package? Do you choose the one, which highlights the characteristics and benefits of buying this product? Or the one which presents the product in a regular, white box without any information?

And it is exactly the same thing where people are concerned. How a prospect will choose between you and your competitors is not based on your experience and your competencies, but is based on the way you look.

If you are able to impress them with the way you dress and the way you look, they will pay more attention to what you have to say.

It seems unfair, I know, but remember that you are judged every day, simply on the way you look.

So how to maximize your appearance:

1- Create an image to impress!

Your image is what people see long before you even get the chance to speak. Choose a wardrobe that works for you and your business. But you need to be yourself, don’t try to copy somebody, follow what you see in a magazine, or follow some fashion trends, because if your image doesn’t reflect your personality, people will see it immediately.

Don’t try to fake it, be yourself.

Create an image that fits your business. Have the right attitude. Be consistent with your image. The image you reflect, good or bad, has a direct impact on how other perceive your business.

In other words, have a professional look. Respect yourself and others will respect you.

2 - Dress with Confidence

When you look your best and act with self-confidence, others will see you that way too.