The power of verbal and non-verbal language for closing successful deals
“There are no second chances for first impressions”, was a phrase the writer Oscar Wilde used to say. And he was not wrong. When entering a store, using a service or receiving a call, we form an almost “unconscious” perception of the service we receive.
The well-known phrase by the writer Oscar Wilde, “There are no second chances to make a first impression”, remains as true as it is relevant. When we enter a store, use a service or receive a call, we form an almost automatic perception of the experience we are having.
In the business sphere, this premise becomes even more crucial, since it can mark the start of a solid, long-term relationship based on trust. A clear example is the time when we contact a supplier and, after a long wait accompanied by endless music, we receive an unsatisfactory answer: “We can’t solve it by phone, you must come to our offices”. This situation creates an impression that will hardly be erased, not only in the customer, but also in those who hear about their experience.
Joint research between the University of Glasgow (Scotland) and Princeton (USA) reveals that a simple greeting can be enough to draw conclusions about the personality of the person giving it. If we remember that the most valuable capital of any company is its human team, then it is easy to understand why an excellent first impression can be a powerful tool.
If your goal is to attract and retain a potential customer, turning them into an ambassador for your brand, follow these tips and make sure that first impression is unbeatable.
Take care of your team’s presentation
Every employee is a direct representative of the company from the moment they walk through the door. Their personal image, both in their clothing and in their behavior, reflects the organization’s values. Clean, professional attire projects an organized, trustworthy company.
Smiling costs nothing, but is worth a lot
According to a study by the Center for Cognitive Neuroscience at Duke University (USA), an authentic smile creates a memorable connection. Our brain tends to remember the people who have treated us kindly, which can make future interactions easier.
Invest in training your team
Give your employees the tools they need to be proactive, courteous and able to make decisions that benefit both the customer and the organization. The most successful companies don’t need an authoritarian boss, but a leader who inspires and guides toward success.
Create a comfortable, productive work environment
The work environment directly influences productivity. A suitable space promotes employee well-being, boosting their performance naturally. If your business serves the public, you can apply sensory marketing strategies to attract and retain your customers.
Make the most of that first opportunity to make a positive impression, since there is probably no second one to win over that coveted customer.
