A professional look
Start with your appearance. Wearing business clothes that are not dirty or wrinkled is a matter of course. If you think that a wrinkled shirt, scuffed shoes or a worn-out belt is okay, think again; you will unnecessarily look like a lazy ignoramus.
Women should use a decent amount of makeup. If you put on too much, you'll look like you're hiding something.
The same is true for odor. Avoid strong perfumes and colognes. Some people may be allergic to perfumes and start to choke, other may find it "only" annoying. You shouldn't smell of sweat or cigarette smoke either.
Careful grooming is important, but only before the meeting. If you keep looking in the mirror and grooming yourself during the meeting or just before it, you will send a clear signal of arrogance and indifference.
Professional behavior
In terms of behavior, you should keep your posture straight, lift your head up and pull your shoulders back. You will then look self-confident and capable, and your clothes will look better too.
Maintain eye contact, smile and pay full attention to the person you are meeting. When he or she comes over to you, avoid looking around for other people or playing with your mobile phone.
If you chew gum to freshen your breath before the meeting, throw it out before you go in.
If you listen to music to calm down or get more energy, hide the headphones before the meeting. Don't keep them around your neck, let alone in your ears. Turn off your mobile phone and put it away.
If you follow all the above-mentioned advice, then there is only one more thing that could hurt your first impression - a poor handshake. When shaking hands, choose something between a cold fish and arm wrestling. Don't add the other hand. The optimal handshake is confident and lasts about two to three seconds.
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