In this brave new world, first impressions are more important than ever. No one can afford to let into their “inner circle”, whether for work or social reasons, if they don’t make you feel at peace with their presence from the beginning. A good example of this is my experience with two blind companies that I asked to come in and bid out a few broken blinds.

An Uncomfortable Meeting Indeed

The first blind company consultant (the father/son owners) almost came in with no masks. They then proceeded to walk onto our carpet with shoes still on. When the time came for the bid, they sat right down at my dining room table and placed their large binders on my kitchen counter…without any kind of request. The father seemed tired of his job and admitted it was time for him to retire. It was as if I was an inconvenience to his day’s activities. I felt disrespected and dreaded the idea of working with this company in the future.

Wow!  What a Difference

The second company’s consultant (also part of the owner’s family) put his mask on right away and when he came in, he asked if he should remove his shoes or get some “booties” to wear in our home. Immediately, I felt a new level of comfort. I now knew he respected this was my home and he was a guest. He continued his kind service by explaining in detail what was needed and then taking a few minutes to fix one of the blinds we had expected to replace, with no charge.

When it came time for a written bid, he asked politely if it would be ok to sit at a table and where I would prefer we do so. The entire process included a kind smile that was easy to see even through a mask. What a difference! Which company would you want working in your home on this project?

Setting Yourself Apart

These elements of in we present ourselves are not outdated and certainly not any less appreciated than years before. In fact, they may set you apart in ways you never imagined:

• Respect of Others
• Unexpected Kindnesses
• A Friendly Demeanor
• Good Old-fashioned Manners

Remember these simple gems as you make your first impressions today and you will build bridges where none may have been possible before.