Best way to make a great impression-whether you are trying to win over a new business contactor future in-laws...

Let the joke be on you. The problem with most jokes is that they are made at someone else's expense, whether it's a Polish joke, a blonde joke or almost any other kind.  The one kind of joke that never hurts anyone's feelings is the one aimed at you. Pick something small and silly that happened to you recently. This will endear you to others.

Be unforgettable. I have a doctor who loves antique fishing equipment. I gave him a lure from another client who had been unable to sell it because it was too old. It was an unforgettable gift to the doctor and has cemented the relationship for many years.

Don't send a holiday card. Nearly every company send its clients and associates cards around the Christmas holiday. With many holiday cards coming in, yours is just one in a crowd. Instead, send cards or call on truly special occasions -birthdays, graduation or it will be of interest to them.

Remember people's names. The best way to remember a person's name is through vivid images. You can associate a new person with a famous person or event. Example: If you meet  Tom, think of Tom Cruise and imagine the new tom on a cruise ship.

Show respect. The best way to show respect is to actively listen. One way to do this is to listen in images. If the person you're listening to is talking about a skiing trip she took, imagine her racing down the mountain. Next, when it's your turn to speak, pause for a second before responding. It shows that you were really listening instead of just waiting for your turn to speak.

When you need help or have questions contact me at scott@professionalproblemsolver.com