Are you always nervous before meetings? Are you afraid of being judged or criticized? If yes, then you might want to try these simple tips to appear smart in front of your colleagues.
The way you present yourself in a meeting has a huge impact on whether or not you succeed. Whether you’re presenting at a conference, pitching a new idea to a client, or even giving a speech, your ability to communicate effectively can mean the difference between success and failure.
You don’t have to be a rocket scientist to impress your boss. Just follow these simple tips to look smarter at the next meeting.
1. Dress Well
When you are going to attend a meeting, make sure that your dress is appropriate for the occasion. If you are attending a business meeting, then you should wear something professional. You don’t want to show up at work looking like you just came out of bed. On the other hand, if you are attending a social gathering, then you can go casual. Just remember that you need to look presentable.
2. Be Prepared
If you are going to attend any kind of meeting, you should always bring some sort of preparation. This could include notes, a pen, a notepad, etc. Make sure that you have everything that you need before you leave home. You never know what might happen, so you may end up needing to write down information from someone else.
3. Keep Your Phone Charged
You never know when you will get a call or text message while you are at a meeting. If you do receive a phone call or text message, make sure that you keep your phone charged. Otherwise, you could miss important calls or messages.
4. Smile
Smiling is contagious, but to look better at the meeting, smile when people laugh too. In this meeting, it makes you appear friendly and increases your good communication skills.
5. Do not eat before the meeting
Do not eat anything before entering the meeting room to look better. If you do, you’ll have to go to the bathroom and come back later. This means you will be late.
6. Stance position
Make sure your chair has arms when sitting at the table. Otherwise, you may fall asleep. Never put your feet on the table as this is rude. Always clasp your hands in front of you if you want to look good at the meeting.
7. Arrive Early
Arriving early gives you plenty of time to get settled in and prepare yourself for the meeting. If you arrive late, you may not have time to settle down and focus on the meeting.