Make use of the second impression

Just like in courtship or relationships, second chances are also vital in businesses, professions and social situations. If the first meeting, dinner chat or interview did not go as expected and you are given a second chance to impress, a good shot will make an impression which will last.
Many people know the first impression as a lasting one though it is usually forgotten. A second chance utilised well, will make a good or better impression as well. A number of professionals give assurance of this possibility and insight on how to make it happen.

Prepare adequately for the second meeting
Besides finding out the venue for the meeting, be sure to find out a few details about the person you are going to meet, his profession and preferences if possible.
“A second meeting is as important as the first and therefore needs adequate preparation. It’s hard to please some people and therefore you will need more than the first meeting to impress them and have them like you. Therefore if you mess up the second meeting too, a third and forth meeting may be in a dream,” highlights Mr Robert Mwesige, human resource advisor for Federation of Uganda Employers.
During preparation, research about the person you are going to meet. Read about him or her. “You will not be able to have a meaningful conversation if you do not know the person you are going to meet. You will end up calling a C.E.O, not chief of everything, an administrator and that’s a put off,” says Mr Jonathan Ochom, a programmes assistant for Democratic governance facility.
He adds; on meeting, give him or her firm handshake. Not one firm enough to break his hand. Try not to sound boring and predictable. Instead, comment or ask him about something you read about him. This will get the person to tell you more about him, much of which Google didn’t tell you.
Mr Mwesige says you select your topic of interest and discuss it.

State the reason for the meeting
Make sure you state the reason as to why you are there. It’s usually obvious that the other person knows the reason there is need for you to mention it. It is a busy world and the person may have lots of agenda to recall yours.
“Allocate your conversation time so he is sure how much of his time- yes his time you are taking up and ensure the conversation fits into that time frame, Mr Ochom advises.

Have a consequential conversation
The first conversation you had during the first meeting which you messed or nailed will determine this conversation. Use this opportunity to have a better conversation.
It’s important to remember every detail of the first meeting. You cannot make a significant conversation if you don’t even recall the first conversation where you messed, what you need to clarify and what you want the other party to understand
“I am sure we always flash back after meetings and conversations and can tell things that didn’t go well. Some people will want you to remind them of some points in the first meeting,” says Mr Joshua Wakabi, the programme coordinator, youth livelihoods.

During the meeting, ask good and relevant questions and do not interrupt, know when to respond and before you do, think! Above all, listen more and talk less.
“You may have crammed or rehearsed what you will say and somehow go overboard and make the same statements you made during the first meeting. Bottom line is, do not repeat yourself”.
Also, keep the discussion centered on the other person. “Impressing him or her implies that the conversation is not all about you. Be sure to use your communication skills to get him talking,” he adds.
However, Mr Mwesige cautions against humour. “Desist from joking so much because you do not know the person’s social life. He may not be the joking type and some remarks may backfire or sound offensive if prolonged”.

Utilise the opportunity
Do not waste his time. Give an opening to end the meeting when you have reached the time limit that you agreed upon. “Take the conversation to the next level and use this opportunity to build a relationship. The second meeting may get you a job, a client or cement a friendship”.
However, if the conversation is vital to the other party, you will have no right to end it. So, wait till he says it has come to an end.
“Make sure you do not add any unnecessary information when the ‘meaningful conversation’ ends lest you make a bad impression. A second chance is meant to help you wipe away the first mess. Two messes may never be easy to mend,” he shares.

Be thankful
As a matter of courtesy and respect, unless he is willing to continue the conversation, thank the person for his time and appreciate him for the second chance or meeting before you get up to leave and indicate you will; be grateful to meet again.

[email protected]