What IT takes to Make a Memorable Impression:
By: Demetria Pappas and Lisa Iadicicco
After the handshakes and business cards have been exchanged, here are some MMI ways to make yourself stand above and apart from competitors.
Follow up is most impressive and effective only if you contact a person within 24 hours of your meeting. If you meet someone at a business luncheon, send an email later that day. If a client or colleague takes, you out to dinner, send a thank-you note or email the next morning. Staying in touch takes discipline and persistence. By regularly staying in touch, you will ensure they will be more likely to refer you.
ASK the ask. Do not be afraid or intimidated to ask new acquaintances if you can connect with them through social networking sites. Understand that the “traditionalist” might say, “I do not do Facebook”—in that event be prepared to ask if you may email them occasionally.
Show interest to people in your network by sending them relevant articles or links of interest. The key word here is “relevant”. Sending the right message at the right time will show people that you are thinking about them.
Integrity is something that we all value, yet it is often jeopardized by choosing to not reply appropriately. The quickest way to damage your credibility is to ignore phone calls and emails. Deliver on your promises. Keep your word.
Pen a handwritten note. This business behavior is losing ground in today’s world of email. Nothing will replace a higher presence of gratitude than a warmly worded note. Be sure to personalize your note with your signature.
Making an impression last takes time and work. People do not create lasting impressions by not creating a relationship. People make an impression within the first 7 seconds of the introduction—WE make the impression last, by what we do after that introduction.
Call on Mother, May I for our impression on other topics that interest you at MMIpgh@gmail.com
Check us out on our website www.mothermayisite.org or call us at 412.531.2050 for more information on how we can make your life experience…nicer.
Demetria Pappas and Lisa Iadicicco are the Co-founders of Mother, May I-a premier company that trains and teaches proper behavior, common courtesies and social skills updated. MMI is licensed to train professionals in Protocol and Corporate etiquette. MMI provides customized presentations for all audiences. MMI’s Mission is to share valuable information for everyone to improve their world–“Changing your manners, may change your world”