If walking into a room full of unfamiliar people scares you, you have good reason! You only have between 5-7 seconds to make a good first impression and command presence. Ever noticed how some people just own a room? Their secret? They know how to make an entrance. Making an unforgettable impression as you walk into a room is a powerful weapon in your arsenal, one that gives you an edge and shaping the way that others perceive you.

Secrets to making an impressive entrance

1. Do your homework – know what the dress code is. You don’t want to be dressed in formal attire when everyone else is wearing casual smart. If you can find out who will be there.
2. Be on time – being fashionably late has no place in today’s hectic business world. Being late will throw you off your game, you’re going to look  flustered.
3. Before walking in, put away your mobile, sunglasses, car keys and whatever else you are carrying so you look polished and composed.
4. To manage any nervousness, stop for a moment before you walk in, take a deep breath and visualize a room of people that adore you and see your true value, now walk in.
5. Power Pose. If you can – do Amy Cuddy’s power poses before walking in (privately). Watch this video on how.
6. Walk you Talk. Check your posture – stand up straight, head up, shoulders back. It will help you feel confident. In the words of Oscar De La Renta, “Walk like you have three men walking behind you.”
6. Leave your self-consciousness at the door. Anxiety and fear don’t belong here.

Impressive entrance 2
7.  Walk in with a pleasant smile, relax your body and your facial muscles, and make casual eye contact. To display confident body language click here.
8. Don’t stop or hesitate as you walk through the door. Walk at a casual, steady pace to the centre of the room, as if you know someone. Don’t stand in the door scanning the room for someone you know.
9.  Should you not know anyone – find the PR person/ host of event and ask them to introduce you to someone.
10. Master the art of small talk – click here for valuable tips to do this
11. Get a drink and make sure your right hand is open to shake hands.

Impressive entrance 3

12. Practice makes perfect. But don’t ever look rehearsed!

Sound like a tall order? The good news is that as you implement these tips, you will see immediate results, which will boost your confidence and make it easier to make an entrance next time.

Practice at home until the right posture and relaxed, warm smile are second nature. Plan your time well so you will never have to make a rushed entrance. Each time you make a successful entrance you will get one step closer to becoming one of those people who command presence when they walk into a room.

Is developing Personal Presence on your company’s list of training programmes? If not, let us assist you and your colleagues to command a professional presence in today’s fast moving world. We look forward to unlocking your unlimited potential!

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Connect with us on haydee@haydeeantezana.com or 951 970 3853

 

951-970-3853