Second Impressions Count

You never get a second chance to make a great first impression, right? It's true - so make sure that you're dressed appropriately, you're groomed appropriately, and you show up on time. Most people have figured this out, but what about making a great second impression?

Whether you are meeting to pitch a new product, pitch yourself for a promotion, or pitch for a new job, it is the second impression that counts. For example, in the case of a job interview, why are you meeting in the first place? Of course, you're looking for a job, but what is the interviewer looking for?

An interviewer (or a prospective customer) doesn't care about you - they only care about how you can solve their problem. If you demonstrate within the first 5-10 minutes that you can do so, then you're in the running. If you can't - or you don't - then the rest of the interview is merely a courtesy. Second impressions count.

This week's action item: The next time you need to pitch a product or idea, be clear how it's adoption will solve a particular problem. If it doesn't solve that problem, then it probably won't be adopted. The next time you decide to pitch yourself for a new role, do the same thing. Determine the problem that needs solving, then make sure that your second impression counts: in your resume, cover letter, and most certainly when you meet.

Make It Happen Tipsheet
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Copyright © 2007 Knowledge to Action Press and Randall Craig. All rights reserved.

Publication Date: May 8, 2007