According to Charlie Walker-Wise, client director and tutor at RADA in Business, this is crucial to making a good first impression in business meetings.

Walker-Wise’s comments follows the release of research carried out by the drama school that shows 78% of people surveyed claim they seldom meet someone who makes a strong first impression.

But fear not: Walker-Wise claims some techniques traditionally used by actors on stage can “drastically” increase success at making a good first impression at business meetings.

“Using your peripheral vision is crucial when entering a new space, so that you can absorb the atmosphere of the room you’re walking into and see everyone in it. It allows you to gauge the physical environment and emotional climate.”

Walker-Wise adds by making positive physical and vocal choices your chosen audience can see that you’re available to them and engaged, whether it's an interview panel of two people or addressing a larger crowd.

“Ultimately by increasing your self-awareness in business situations you become more aware of the impact of both your behaviour and the behaviour of others. You can use these skills to flex your communication style according to the situation and make the first impression required. It’s amazing how small shifts in how you use your physicality and voice can affect your audience.’’

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