When you meet someone for the first time, the impression you leave can be lasting. Are you confident your image is as polished as it could be? In today's Smart Woman Report, Kelly Crawford has some easy tips on building a better image.

DeNita L. Turner is an expert image-builder. Today, she's helping Marriott employees gain an edge on their competition.

Roger Dow
Sr. VP
Marriott International

"The most important ingredient, I think, on whether people do business with you or don't is the image of the people in your team, and what they represent."

First impressions are made in fifteen seconds, so make your time count. Start with the right handshake.

DeNita L. Turner, President
Image Builders, Laurel, MD

"So many men give me this fishtail handshake. I don't know what that means! And I give them a firm handshake. And immediately, the look in their eye is, ahh, oh, she's serious."

If clammy hands are a problem, put baby powder on a handkerchief, and keep it in your pocket.

DeNita L. Turner

"And if you feel your hands starting to perspire, just take a little rub across. That'll help absorb some of the perspiration."

DeNita L. Turner

"When in doubt, ask people where they're from. Everyone is from somewhere. And you've either been there, you've not been there or you may never want to go there, but you can at least talk about where we're from."

When conversation moves toward the dinner table, remember that liquids like water and coffee will be on your right-solids like bread, on your left. And here's an easy tip about utensils - begin with the ones on the outside, and work your way in.

DeNita believes whatever situation you're in, image can be your best asset.

DeNita L. Turner

"You're confident, and there's no better feeling than knowing the right thing to do."

Before you head to a social event, DeNita suggests you brush up on the day's headlines for small-talk ideas. But when making coversation with someone you've just met, avoid talking about politics, religion or your personal health.