Home »  Beauty »  Beauty in the Mind »  First impressions count! Yes! First impressions certainly matter! You've delved into beauty books, taken out the best tips on make-up and dress and tried to incorporate everything into your preparation for that important party. But does your entry have the desired effect? Well....not really....

So, what went wrong? What had you left undone that the whole thing should become a damp squib" why have you been written off even before you've begun? Remember, people are quick to judge. You may not have taken into consideration who you were meeting and in what kind of environment the meeting was going to take place and therefore were not adequately prepared for the occasion. Always, but always remember that first impressions go a long way. You will never get a second chance.

So how then do you look your best and impress people with your good looks, charm and grace? You have to know how you can convey the impression that you are the charismatic, lovely, gracious person they were looking for. Here are a few pointers to help you on your way.

Appearance is important

Of course, your appearance is going to be the fIrst thing that people are going to notice about you. Very important that you should look your best. After all, you have just a few seconds to make a first impact. Take into consideration the occasion and also the weather before you decide on what you are going to wear. Business meeting? Job interview? Wear something that exudes a professional attitude even while it is subtle and simple. Going for a party at night? You can afford to be seen in something that is fun and attractive, but if you are not too sure, it is always better to be a little conservative in your approach.

Your make-up should be natural looking and fresh. Never overdo the make-up or you will stand out like a sore thumb. Keep your hairstyle simple and neat - it will enhance your look and will be flattering to your face.

Your body language conveys so much

Simple things like good posture will always stand you in good stead. Carry yourself with confidence, show that you mean business. Smile and make eye contact and show that you are interested in the person you are meeting. Especially in a business setting. Keep your handshake firm and brief" this is very crucial to any business meeting.

Remember, that nervous twitching and obvious tension will be revealed through your facial expressions and gestures. Do not convey the impression that you are there under duress or that you did not want to meet with the person at all. Do not cross your hands or keep them on your hips. Just relax and do not fidget nervously. After all, you convey a lot through your body language. Learn to be yourself. Learn to be confident.

How to converse

You have already won half your battle with your appearance and then your body language. It will surely surprise you to know that what you say and how you say it are not really as important as the first two. Listen to what the other person has to say and reply intelligently. This way you are conveying to him that you are truly interested in what he has to say and this in turn, will make him reciprocate your interest.

It is very important that you do all this with an ease of conviction and not make it a laborious process that will only undermine your position. Prepare yourself but don't sweat in the process. Be natural, be optimistic. Above all, enjoy yourself and more important, have fun. After all, that's what life is all about, isn't it?