First impressions: the first step towards success

We recently posted a poll in our LinkedIn group Sales Specialists UK asking which aspect of sales is more difficult? 75% of respondents said “making first contact with the prospect” was the hardest.

In recent years, we’re less expected to make first contact in person. We can now connect via email, phone and Skype from the comfort of our own home or office. But people still make judgements on others within the first few seconds of meeting them, so however you do it, make sure you get it right:

• If you’re emailing them, ensure that you double check that what you've written makes sense and has no errors, or you’ll be remembered for your mistakes. 
• If you’re phoning a prospect, do it in an environment where you can give them your full attention and if it’s on a mobile, somewhere where your signal won’t cut out. 
• If you’re meeting someone face-to face, think about your mood, what you’re wearing and your body language. 

You’re building a relationship with your potential customers right from the first point of contact. If you can’t sell yourself, how can you sell your products? The old cliché is true: you don’t get a second chance to make a first impression.

Should you make first contact face-to-face, by email or by phone? How about through social media? What works when you make contact with a new prospect?

Hays Sales UK are experts in all areas of sales recruitment. To find out more about how our highly skilled consultants can support you, please visit our website.