Selling yourself correctly is fundamentally simple and anyone can do it. There is two parts to this art. The who am I and what is my psyche and skill set, and, secondly, making the right first impression with others whether networking or potential employers. Both parts properly conducted will go some way to putting you in the sights of those who are able to assist you.

Define your product – know who you are and what could make you stand out. The intangibles like honesty, strength of character and timeliness.
Establish your true marketability by watching and listening to others, research sectors and work honestly on development areas.

Have a clear understanding of your skill set. What have you done previously that went towards your experience pool and how these skills could be applied out of the environment within which they were gained. Everyone needs quality managers, delivery of projects on time, budgetary control and so on. Have real examples.

Establish your potential customers and how will you access them. These customers could be individuals to build your network through or your preferred employment sector and the players within. Ask, research, read and Google. Getting access ideas will follow.

Develop and practice your \’pitch\’ so that at any moment when the opportunity presents itself, you are ready. Some call it the elevator speech. You have 30 seconds to get a further detailed meeting agreed (or at least to get that business card!)

Then, your at your networking lunch, job fair or interview, making the right first impression is key. You only get one chance to make a first impression but hey no worries because you know who you are, your skills and what makes you stand out, don’t you?

What is the right impression? Again, this is not rocket science and everyone can do this. Be aware of the dress code and go slightly smarter than suggested. Smart casual to me is a suit and shirt. A formal interview is always the former with the tie added.

A firm handshake and a smile go a long way with first impressions. Everyone likes people who smile and appear approachable and friendly. Remember to say hello.

Okay, so now your making progress and meeting others. You don\’t yet know if and how they can help you so look to network effectively. Be timely with your conversation but not too short to appear rude. Networking can often throw up ace cards when you least expect.

Know your \”pitch and what you are talking about. Be careful with opinions and don’t own the conversation but share it. Steer it to where you want it if necessary. Use the ear / mouth adage – you have two of one and one of the other, use them in that proportion.

Try to get round the room and for those who you are unable to engage in conversation, get a attendees or delegates list. Later, make a judgment whether to contact them with a \”sorry we were unable to meet properly\” introduction.

Remember, no two people are the same but similarities exist in everyone. As an individual, you are just as important as anyone else around you and they will be selling themselves also. Work with them not against and you will leave with a smile on your face, business card(s) in your pocket and a structure to build your next plan upon.

Author Bio: Keith Turnbull\’s business is personal sales coaching, he is also passionate about effective business networking and enjoys reading personal development books.

Category: Business
Keywords: first impression,future success,right first impression,first impressions,sell yourself,