How many times have we heard someone say "I'd made up my mind about so-and-so the moment I laid eyes on him"? First impressions are usually the last, and go a long way in directing the future of relationships, particularly in business. Therefore, making a first impression that is favorable is of huge importance. What can you do to hit it off with a prospective business partner from the get-go?

Sure, it's a matter of chemistry between two people. Unfortunately, there is no prosaic formula for making a first impression that will last in the minds of people long after the interaction has ended. So, while there are no paths to guaranteed success, there are plenty of routes to certain failure! Watch out for the usual pitfalls while going about making a first impression.

1. It's not about you. Raring to impress, there are some people who just won't stop talking. Sure, you may have a list of accomplishments as long as the river Nile, but, hey, who wants to know, just yet? Give the other people equal, if not more, opportunity to present their credentials, and listen attentively without displaying your eagerness to say your piece. You'll probably make a better impression if you're not out to impress!
2. Mind your language. And we mean that in every sense of the word. Of course, it's a no-brainer that you don't use slang and offensive language in any business meeting, and most certainly not in the first one. The same applies to jokes that are better left in a bar-room. Also take care to use phrases that the other guys will understand, particularly if they're foreigners. Speak slowly and clearly. It doesn't matter if you don't have the gift of the gab, but you certainly need to communicate effectively, as the folks will tell you. You won't get anywhere close to making a first impression of note, if the others don't understand what you're saying!
3. Appearances are important. Although dress code is no longer as stiff as it used to be, it's always better to dress more formally if you're not sure what's expected. After all, a jacket can always come off, but you'll have trouble blending in, in your brightly colored t-shirt and slip-ons.
4. Be punctual. Aw, do we really have to spell it out? Turning up late for an appointment will deal a death blow to any hopes of making a first impression that can be considered positive; on the other hand, turning up half an hour early may indicate a bad case of nerves.
5. Be prepared. Memorize as many details as possible about the people you're going to meet. If you have trouble pronouncing a name, ask him or her to show you how, for god's sake! Also, be clear about your objectives for the meeting - that will tell the others that you mean business, and also show that you respect their time far too much to fritter it away in "social" interaction. Especially when the meeting is with higher executives, one meeting is all you get - so make the most of making that first impression.

If you come across as someone who people would like to do business with in your first meeting, there are chances that there will be a second. And for that to happen, you'll need to make a great first impression!