People form an opinion about you and the products and services you represent in seconds and first impressions typically do not change, or at least change slowly. That is why you should never forget that you are always “on stage” when it comes to meeting people. In other words, there is a possibility that you will encounter likely customers and readers each time you step out of your house or office, send an email, or enter something on a social media discussion group.
Everything you say and do is up for potential analysis and comment in today’s transparent, technology-driven world. If you fail to present a clean, professional image in your grooming and dress or do not censure your own thoughts and words face-to-face and online, you may send a negative message that can be shared easily with others in a nanosecond. Those negative impressions can damage your reputation and lead to lost book sales or business. At the same time, whenever you encounter someone in line while waiting for service at a business or have an opportunity to communicate with someone in writing, you can seize that moment to make a positive impression. Be pleasant, listen actively, and engage in personal conversation to learn about the person and share information about yourself and your book(s) and product(s), if they seem interested. Remember not to push information on them. Briefly share the fact that you are an author, give them a business card and encourage them to check out information on your books on the Internet and at local book stores and libraries.
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