One of the most important life lessons many of us were taught as children is that we should not place too much emphasis on what people think of us. But the sad truth is that, in business, image and first impressions do matter — they are the first elements on which people are judged.

When you walk into a board meeting for the first time, you want to make an influential and positive impression in order for colleagues to perceive you as befitting a specific image.

The idea is to develop a personality that best suits your professional position and model your M.O. (modus operandi) around it. Of course, you do not want to pretend to be someone you are not, as your true colors will eventually overshadow the fa硤e. Therefore, the following personalities and the traits they possess should be developed and honed if you plan on succeeding in business.

1- The Negotiator

When you walk into the boardroom, the way you carry yourself should immediately suggest your inclination for thoroughness.

Be diplomatic

You are a professional and nothing proves that more than diplomacy. A good negotiator understands that the road to success involves compromise. No one is ever going to get everything he wants without ruffling some feathers, so it is vital that concessions are made.

Be charismatic

You must be charismatic and show signs of empathy so as not to intimidate your colleagues. This way, you will be regarded as approachable, which is the goal of any good negotiator. How can you negotiate a deal when people are not comfortable talking to you?

Be a good communicator

Negotiating involves explaining the pros and cons to your audience so they can understand the various viewpoints at hand. You should therefore speak with confidence, have a mastery of the language, and use props to illustrate your point.

Be cool-headed

Whenever you are negotiating, you will no doubt run into differing opinions. A great negotiator is not swayed by intense debate. Consequently, you have to remain calm, avoid sweating or fidgeting, and be prepared to withstand the pressure with a smile.

Be open-minded

All professional mediators are flexible. Exercise your ability to understand the perspectives of others. On the other hand, you are there to pursue a personal agenda so to a certain extent, you must remain unyielding on your position.

2- The Leader

All great leaders should embody the following characteristics:

Be decisive

A good leader does not waver in the face of adversity. You must make firm decisions after carefully weighing any and all arguments presented to you. Be resolute in your thinking and demonstrate that you are a man of action.

Be proud

Upon entering any boardroom, you want others to instantly recognize that you are a leader. Dress the part with a meticulously chosen, high quality suit. In addition, your posture must reflect your steadfast attitude.

Be organized

A leader has all his ducks in a row. People look up to him because he knows where he is going and has taken the necessary steps to get there. You must master the art of time management.

Be knowledgeable

A leader becomes who he is because he has proven to others that he has a firm grasp over any given situation. If you are going to discuss something, make certain you are incredibly knowledgeable on the topic. If you are not well-informed, listen closely and keep your lips sealed. And believe it or not, sometimes pleading ignorance will garner you even more respect.

Be confident

Self-assurance is what makes a great leader great and inspires others to follow his lead. Speak with conviction and do not be afraid to speak your mind.

3- The Team Player

If you are the kind of person who prefers to use we rather than I when speaking, perhaps youre destined to be a team player.

Show you care

Make a point to remember the names of your co-workers. Furthermore, be generous with your good mornings and how are you. These simple gestures go a long way toward making others feel appreciated.

Be a good listener

Team players can easily conform to different people\’s personalities. Encourage others to open up and share their concerns with you. Listen effectively without interrupting. Take note of everyone\’s feedback and do not undermine anyone\’s opinion.

Give credit

You know there is no I in team, so you should recognize that every success is a communal effort. Value your co-workers\\\’ labor and be sure to bestow credit where credit is due. By the same token, do not be afraid to compliment your colleagues as it will serve to enhance the working environment.

Encourage creativity

Whenever you have the chance, promote vision within your group. Steer meetings toward helping others express themselves. Support collective creativity and you will reach mutual triumph.

4- The Trendsetter

If you dwell outside the realm of regular boundaries and prefer to set trends, then here are some qualities you may want to add to your repertoire.

Have a clear vision

For the most part, what sets you apart is that you are able to see concepts that have not yet been realized. Whereas others follow theories or abstract ideas, you are able to visualize how a project should be developed and exactly how it is going to play out.

Stand out

Because the innovator is not just another sheep, do not shy away from extra attention. If your ideas make you conspicuous, embrace the spotlight and do not be afraid to add your input and mold a venture into your own.

Be debonair

As a trendsetter, you will not be reprimanded for implementing your own sense of style. In your case, eccentricity is almost favored. Make a point to be suave and impose your rhythm. Do not worry; most people realize that innovation does not come prepackaged and standardized.

Have an attitude

By the same token, do not conceal your assertive energy; display your confidence. Your positive attitude will make colleagues accept your ideas and agree to implement them. Fight for your beliefs.

Know the trends

You ca not charge into the future without being aware of the past. Modern artists have studied the classics and so should you. Stay up-to-date on former and current trends and you will likely be able to forecast future styles.

keep your head!

No matter what personality you associate yourself with, if you want to be convincing, you must thoroughly fill those shoes, exemplify the behavior, and be ready to deliver the goods. You need substance to back up the image; no one can be all show and no tell, not even the trendsetter.