Last night Laura and I went car shopping and what was interesting was just how different we were treated at each dealership.

1. At the first one we were barely noticed and when someone finally did come over to us to let us know that they'd have someone talk to us as soon as they can, we had already made our mind up about the car. Of course we couldn't open up the back which is something we really wanted to check out and when we asked about it we got a boiler plate, "sorry about that" and he walked off.
2. At the second, as soon as we got on the lot we were greeted. As we walked over to look at a car that fit what we were looking for we had to stop by the show floor so the salesman could get his cigarettes. I thought nothing of it till he lit up while talking to us about the car on the lot. Talk about instant decision never to buy a car from this dealership ever!
3. At the final one we were greeted right away and shown a couple of options. They talked to us about the car and asked if we'd like to test drive it. We took it out for a spin, had a great conversation with the salesman and at the end he thanked us, gave us his business card and encouraged us to call him with any questions we might have.

Each of these left a longing first impression on me and as the saying goes, you only get one chance to make a first impression.

These first interactions will determine where I will spend my money and who I will recommend to others. I'm not alone in this and no matter what your business is you MUST be making a good first impression because everyone has options and no one has to buy from you.

This reaches beyond business of course as well. Each person you meet, you are making an impression on. We all form opinions about you the moment we meet you.

What are you doing to make sure that the first impression you give is a good one?

Photo Credit: Becky Lai (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)