Sylvia di Guisto directly addresses camera:  Real estate agents understand a lot about first impressions. You understand how important  curb appeal is to a potential buyer. But buyers and sellers aren't only buying a home. They're buying into you as a real estate agent. What does your first impression say about you?
      I'm Sylvia di Guisto, a consultant and speaker who helps audiences understand how their first impressions impact customer experiences. Let's take five minutes to discuss how you can make sure you're leaving a positive first impression.
      I call this the ABCDE's of Your Initial Imprint. These are things that our brains analyze and look for; they are automatic.
      The first is appearance. You cover your body with clothing, but what does your clothes' fit, quality and style say about you? What about the accessories, jewelry and gadgets you carry around? Think about your visual picture. Adjust your appearance based on the product or services you sell. Someone who works with luxury properties will dress differently than a real estate agent who sells equestrian properties.
      B is for behavior. Is your attitude positive? Do you have charisma? Do you shake the person's hand, look into their eyes? Or are you easily distracted by your cell phone? Micro-moments, like glancing at your phone, may not seem relevant to you, but they are to your customers. So, be attentive, pleasant and interested in the buyer or seller you are with.
      Next, communication is key. The first 11 words out of your mouth are the most important ones. How do you start a conversation? Do you sound confident or arrogant? Always have an idea of what you are going to say when you first meet someone. Be kind, confident and helpful.
      Those are all standard tips for creating positive first impressions. But I came up with a few more that are relevant to today's world. D is for digital footprint. Usually, potential customers reach out to you via a website or email, or you have mobile communications with them. What can they find out about you on your social channels? Even if you set your social media to private, there are ways for people to see some of what you post or what people post about you. Your photos and all public information should be professional and business-like.
      Are you posting about topics that may offend people? Remember, people can search for your name on the internet. What are you posting in chatrooms and message boards? Zoom and virtual meetings are popular now. How do you present yourself in a virtual environment? What do they see in your background? People may judge you on a lot of digital activity, either consciously or unconsciously. Be aware.
      Finally, we have the letter E, which stands for Environment. Once potential buyers and sellers get to know you, they are privy to your environment. Who is in your network? What does your car look like? Is your office neat? What does your environment look like?
      People want to work with people they like. It's a relationship business, so buyers and sellers want to know you put a little effort into making sure your car is clean and you appear neat and professional. Remember, perception is reality. Take control of how you present yourself publicly, be professional and remember, customers will use that first impression to determine if they want to work with you, so make it a good one.