You only get one chance to make a first impression. Whether business or personal, those first fleeting moments will shape a person’s initial impression of you! As for the former, they are known to go so far as getting to websites like https://www.checkpeople.com/arrest-records to get a background check on you.

First impressions can come in many forms. As a business, it might be your website or blog. Perhaps even Facebook or Twitter. – And what about LinkedIn or YouTube? Your first impression could even come in the form of media coverage or advertising. No matter the outlet – you absolutely MUST make a great first impression!

When’s the last time you took a step back and thought about the first impression your marketing efforts might leave on an individual?

Let’s start with Social media – How old is your Facebook timeline photo? Better yet – do you HAVE a timeline photo?  Is your Twitter background current and relevant? Have you considered adding a Twitter header image to your page? Is your company information current on LinkedIn? What about your personal profile? Did you update your LinkedIn profile to reflect your 2012 promotion?  I know… you’re shaking your head thinking “I can barely keep up with my work. How does she expect me to find the time to update all of these sites?”  I wouldn’t suggest it if it wasn’t crucial… but IT IS. Remember – you only get one chance to make a first impression.

How about print materials? Are your business cards 13 years old, yellowing around the edges and sporting your 1999 logo? Please, please don’t say yes. If you DID say yes – stop reading now. Pick up the phone. Dial 636-379-3895 and ask for Dana. I can’t let you walk around handing those things out. I know… printing costs money, but your business card is a BIG first impression. I wouldn’t let you show up to prom in a catastrophe of a dress (or tux)… and I can’t let you walk into a networking event with last decade’s print work.

The same goes for ALL of your print materials. They should be cohesive and reflect the branding you’ve worked so hard to build.

As you plan your 2013 budgets – take a hard look at your first impressions. It just might be time to give your PR a fresh face! Even just a few simple changes can really go a long way in creating a true reflection of your brand, company culture and business practices.

…and please, PLEASE burn your 1999 business cards.