Author: Danielle Cearbaugh (Todd Smith’s daughter)

Did you know that a smile is contagious? It costs nothing to give, but reaps great rewards for both the receiver and the giver.

A Smile Spreads Good Cheer

Mother Teresa of Calcutta once said, “Every time you smile at someone, it is an action of love, a gift to that person, a beautiful thing.”

It’s amazing that your simple smile can brighten someone’s day in a moment’s notice. Too often we underestimate the power of a smile. Although it may be considered the smallest act of caring and it takes little or no effort on our part, it has the power to turn a life around—in fact more than one. Like the ripple effect of a pebble tossed into a pond, your smile will spread far beyond the first person who receives it. You never know how many people will benefit because you smiled first…read more

I read a study a couple years ago that indicated people make a decision about the trustworthiness of a website in less than one second. Yes, I said less than one second. Think about it. How long does it take you to form an initial opinion of a website? Is it one second, two seconds or five seconds?

Just as people quickly form an initial opinion of a website, they also are quick to form an opinion of us. After all, do you notice how people look, what they are wearing and how they comb their hair? Whether you acknowledge it or not, you are a forming a mental picture of this person within a short amount of time.

First Impressions Are Lasting Impressions

How we look plays a significant role in our overall brand, but it is especially important in the business world.

The first impression you make on people creates a lasting impression. In fact, if you fail to make a positive first impression, you may never be given a second chance. This is especially true when going on a sales call or a job interview. Just as your smile, handshake, eye contact and ability to remember someone’s name are components of an initial first impression, so is your appearance….read more

The impression you make on people through your handshake influences how they feel about you. A proper handshake is even more important when meeting people for the first time. First impressions are lasting impressions. The manner in which you extend your hand, the degree of firmness and the timing demonstrate your poise and confidence and will inevitably set the tone for your relationship. In this lesson we will explore the specifics of handshake etiquette and examine how a handshake can enhance your brand.

I know some of you are thinking, Come on Todd, I know how to shake someone’s hand. But realistically when was the last time you analyzed your handshake? Consider these questions:…read more

If I were to rank all the factors that go into creating a likable personality, I would have to place a friendly smile at the top of the list. A warm, authentic smile communicates feelings that words alone can’t possibly accomplish. A great smile radiates warmth, puts people at ease and makes a good first impression.

The impact Of Your Smile

As you meet people, you will see a wide range of smiles. These smiles will vary from the “habit smile” where they are smiling sub-consciously simply because they know they should smile to the “it’s really nice to see you smile” where their smile is communicating an authentic interest in you….read more