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  • What to Watch: Prime Video's 'Them: The Scare' Starring Luke James Mixes Genres While Exploring Black History

    The Anthology series Them: The Scare has hit Prime Video, and this weekend is the perfect time to watch a genre-blending provocative series that serves plenty of jump scares. Starring Luke James, Deborah Ayorinde, and the legendary Pam Grier, the limited series has garnered rave reviews for not only the series creator Little Marvin but also for the performances of its lead stars. Much like the show's predecessor, THEM: Covenant, The Scare tells the story of institutionalized racism at its core with subplots exploring many themes including loneliness, acceptance and what comes from the lack thereof. Episode one sets the tone for the series while offering plenty of jump scares and moments of anxiety-inducing sequences. Los Angeles 1991 splatters across the screen at the beginning of episode one, pulling viewers into a familiar era in American History. Footage of Rodney King's police beating is shown in the background. The LA Riots and race relations in the police force show the evil of not only the murders that are happening in town, but within humans as well. James plays Edmund Gains, an awkward man who works at a fictional Chuck E. Cheese look-alike restaurant. His innocent stature is ever so present, yet viewers will be unable to shake that uneasy feeling of watching the actor. "The challenge was just myself believing in myself," James says in an interview with The Quintessential Gentleman. That challenge has The Chi actor giving a career-defining performance of a man searching for family and home, ultimately making decisions that alter the course of his life and the lives of others. "I had to tell the truth. I had to dive into my own experiences," James continues. Viewers watching James play Edmund will realize the layers not only of his character but also of James as a Black man. "It is an honor to be a Black man in this business and find success," he explains. Watch our interview with Luke James below. With powerful moments between each character and moments that hold a mirror up to society to this day, Them: The Scare knocks it out of the park. A heart-pounding thrill that will have the biggest horror fans revel in the series' tone and gore. Amazon's latest enters the thrust of the golden age of gender-bending true crime mysteries while staying true to Little Marvin's mission of exposing true evil. All eight episodes of Them: The Scare are now available to be streamed on Prime Vide

  • 50 Cent Launches New Production Studio In Louisiana

    Fifty aka Ferrari is doing his thing. The well-renowned rapper from Queens, New York has officially launched his G-Unit Studios, according to Blavity. And of all places, the NYC rapper has launched his studios in Shreveport, Louisiana. Fifty said that this is an expansion of the G-Unit Film & Television company and a part of his ongoing efforts to provide a platform for “compelling stories.” “From the gritty narratives of the streets to the compelling stories that define our era, G-Unit has always been more than just entertainment; it’s a platform for voices that need to be heard, stories that need to be told,” 50 Cent told Billboard. “Bringing G-Unit Studios to Shreveport is not just a business decision; it’s a commitment to fostering talent, creating opportunities, and building a community that thrives through creativity and innovation.” Although Shreveport is in the country in the South, 50 had some glowing thoughts for his new place of work, saying that the Louisiana city is a “beacon of inspiration and creativity.” Mayor Tom Arceneaux was highly excited as he spoke more on the impact of G-Unit Studios on the city. “We are thrilled that G-Unit Studios will plant its roots in Shreveport,” Arceneaux told Billboard. “This city’s rich culture and talent provide the perfect backdrop for this endeavor. We are eager to collaborate with Mr. Jackson and G-Unit Film & Television to bring captivating movies and entertainment to Shreveport and Caddo Parish.” The city hosted a special ceremony last Thursday, celebrating the opening of G-Unit Studious. And Arceneaux declared April 18 as Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson Day. “Ladies, gentlemen, Mayor Tom Arceneaux and the wonderful people of Shreveport, it is an honor for me to stand before you here today,” 50 Cent said at the ceremony, per Shreveport Times. “As someone who’s always believed in the transformative power of music, film and television I’m really excited to show you the expansion of film and television through G-Unit Studio right here in Shreveport.” One of the greatest rappers of the 2000s agreed with the city, leasing the studio for 30 years with a yearly rate of $2,400, the Shreveport Times reported. “I am excited about this opportunity,” 50 Cent said, adding that the G-Unit Studios will resemble the Tyler Perry studio in Atlanta. Photo Credit: DepositPhotos.com

  • LeBron James, Steph Curry Join Team USA For the 2024 Olympics

    The game’s greatest players will finally gear up and join Team USA. The NBA’s greatest player of all time, LeBron James, will gear up with the game’s greats, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Kawhi Leonard, Joel Embiid, Anthony Davis, Anthony Edwards, Jrue Holiday, Jayson Tatum, Devin Booker, Bam Adebayo and Tyrese Haliburton. Time will tell if this team matches up with the likes of the 1992 Dream Team, but this team sure has a shot. Still, the squad is seeking to defend its gold medal won back in the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. The country’s best basketball players have a stranglehold on the gold, as the team has won 16 gold medals and has been the top team at each Games dating back to 2004 when Argentina stunned the U.S. in the semifinals en route to a gold title. “These guys are up for the challenge. And they know what’s at stake," Team USA managing director Grant Hill told TODAY. "The objective is to win a gold medal." “No one cares who’s the leading scorer, who has the most minutes," he said. "The goal is to win a gold. They know that. They want that and they’re fired up.” Fired up for this opportunity is James, who is in his 21st season in the NBA. This will be his fourth time in the Olympics, as in 2004 he won bronze and in 2008 and 2012 he won gold. For Curry, it will be his first stint with Team USA despite having a decorated NBA career. Durant has a chance to make history, as he’s just one of two players, along with Carmelo Antony, to win a whopping three gold medals. If he wins it this year in Paris, he will be the first to win a fourth. Hill in an interview with Today.com explained that his conversations with players regarding joining Team USA started in 2022. “I don’t want to say it was easy,” he says with a laugh. “I think the experience was so invaluable for those who’ve been a part of it — so important, so special, so unique — that they wanted to do it again.” Photo Credit: DepositPhotos.com

  • When to Hire a Personal Injury Attorney

    In life, accidents and mishaps can occur unexpectedly, leaving individuals grappling with physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens. When these incidents are caused by the negligence or wrongful actions of another party, victims may be entitled to seek compensation through a personal injury claim. However, navigating the legal complexities of personal injury law can be daunting without the guidance of a skilled attorney. Understanding when to enlist the services of a personal injury attorney is crucial for ensuring that victims receive the justice and compensation they rightfully deserve. Severity of Injuries One of the primary factors to consider when deciding whether to hire a personal injury attorney in Albuquerque is the severity of the injuries sustained in the accident. If the injuries are minor, such as bruises or scratches, and require minimal medical treatment, pursuing a claim without legal representation may be feasible. However, if the injuries are severe, such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, or permanent disabilities, seeking the assistance of an attorney is highly advisable. Serious injuries often result in extensive medical expenses, long-term rehabilitation, and lost wages, necessitating expert legal advocacy to secure adequate compensation. Complexity of the Case The complexity of a personal injury case can vary depending on various factors, including the circumstances surrounding the accident, liability issues, insurance coverage, and the involvement of multiple parties. Cases involving disputed liability, unclear evidence, or complex legal issues are best handled by experienced attorneys who possess the knowledge and resources to navigate these challenges effectively. Additionally, if the at-fault party is disputing the claim or attempting to shift blame onto the victim, legal representation becomes essential to protect the victim's rights and interests. Statute of Limitations Every state imposes a statute of limitations, which is the legal time limit within which a personal injury lawsuit must be filed. Failing to file a claim within the prescribed time frame can result in the forfeiture of the right to seek compensation. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with a personal injury attorney promptly after an accident to ensure compliance with the statute of limitations. An attorney can assess the specific deadlines applicable to the case and take timely action to preserve the victim's legal rights. Negotiating with Insurance Companies Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, as they often prioritize their own financial interests over the needs of injured individuals. Insurance adjusters may employ various tactics to undervalue or deny legitimate claims, leaving victims with insufficient compensation to cover their damages. By retaining a personal injury attorney, victims gain a powerful advocate who can negotiate with insurance companies on their behalf, striving to secure a fair settlement that adequately compensates for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses. Legal Expertise and Resources Personal injury attorneys possess specialized knowledge of the law and extensive experience handling a wide range of cases, from motor vehicle accidents and slip and fall incidents to medical malpractice and product liability claims. They understand the intricacies of personal injury law, including the burden of proof, liability principles, and potential defenses that may arise. Additionally, attorneys have access to investigative resources, expert witnesses, and other professionals who can strengthen the case and maximize the chances of a favorable outcome. Contingency Fee Arrangements Many personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only collect legal fees if they successfully recover compensation for their clients. This fee structure enables injured individuals to access legal representation without upfront costs or financial risk. Instead, the attorney's fees are contingent upon securing a settlement or verdict on behalf of the client. This arrangement aligns the attorney's interests with those of the client, incentivizing diligent advocacy and striving for the best possible outcome. Knowing when to hire a personal injury attorney is essential for protecting your rights and pursuing fair compensation after suffering injuries due to another party's negligence or misconduct. Whether you've been involved in a car accident, workplace injury, or any other incident resulting in harm, seeking legal guidance can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. By consulting with a reputable attorney early in the process, you can gain valuable support, advocacy, and peace of mind during a challenging time.

  • Deji LaRay, Thomas Jones Talk 'Johnson' Series With The Black Man Can

    Recently, Bounce TV announced that it would be renewing its hit show Johnson, which will premiere on August 3. The show, which follows the lives of four best friends who have been friends since childhood, provides an unapologetic portrayal of Black masculinity and the bonds of brotherhood. It's truly a refreshing perspective seldom seen on television. During a press tour in New York, The Black Man Can hosted an event with the cast of the hit show at the Gentlemen's Factory in Brooklyn, where they talked more about creating the series and what audiences can expect from the series. "Brotherhood is a huge part of this show," Deji LaRay, who is also the creator and executive producer of the series, shares with The Black Man Can founder Dr. Brandon Frame. Audiences watch four Black men, each with different upbringings, live their very different lives in Atlanta. Thomas Jones, also an executive producer on the series, gives credit to Bounce TV for allowing the show to be authentic. "They [Bounce TV] allowed Deji and me to say, 'Hey, be Black men. Be four different Black men but be authentic. And also let Black women be authentic to Black men. There were no agendas with the show. There were no social media power structure conversations there. If there were, for the most part in the writing, it was satire," Jones shares. That's the beauty of the show. Although the series focuses on the lives of these men, the show is relatable to the masses. Just like shows found on other networks, audiences are watching a story about the lives of Black Americans. This time, we see the Black man's perspective on these same issues, which is rarely shown on TV and film. Johnson doesn't shy away from topics that are controversial and have become think pieces on the internet. All of these topics and more are woven throughout the three seasons of the series. Topics like masculinity. "In today's world, that term [masculinity] gets a bad rap to the masses. It's looked at by a lot of people that says it's negative and I think it's a very positive trait. To me, masculinity means a lot of positive things," LaRay shares. As the anticipation for the upcoming season of Johnson builds, we eagerly await the continuation of these men's journey and look forward to seeing what new stories and special guests will be coming. The success of Johnson speaks not only to the talent and dedication of the entire cast and crew but also to the growing demand for authentic representation in media. By allowing the characters to navigate complex issues with honesty and depth, the series resonates with audiences of all backgrounds, fostering important conversations about identity, community and acceptance. As we look forward to the premiere of the new season on August 3, it's evident that Johnson is more than just a television show—it's a cultural phenomenon. This conversation was part of The Black Man Can's new podcast, The Mens Den. Make sure you subscribe to be the first to know when new episodes are released. Photo Credit: Madyson 'Bizzie' Frame

  • Quavo Will Spotlight Youth Sports, Combat Gun Violence At This Year's Huncho Day

    Quavo is about to make Atlanta’s youth sports event even bigger. As Huncho Day enters its seventh year, the former Migos member aims to expand the experience by adding two new games to the program. Team Huncho Basketball and Team Huncho Elite 7v7 football (both owned and created by Quavo) will make their first appearance at the event. Comprised of young male athletes from Atlanta, these games will accompany the yearly celebrity football game and count toward their regular season. The Atlanta Hawks and Atlanta Falcons will still be hosting their normal youth clinics and combines at the event as well, making this hands down the biggest youth sports day in the city. Originally a day to promote Black empowerment and unity, Huncho Day 2024 has taken a more anti-gun violence theme in response to the shooting death of Quavo’s cousin and musical collaborator Takeoff, who passed away in 2022. Proceeds from this year’s sold-out Huncho Day will be used to fund another project of Quavo’s called Rocket Camp. Named in memory of Takeoff, Rocket Camp is a new 10-week youth program meant to intervene in the yearly summer violence amongst young Atlanteans. “I am honored to launch this grant program to honor Take and the countless families that have been affected by gun violence,” Quavo said in a recent statement. “There is a lot of important work going on in ATL right now, and part of our mission is to uplift these organizations and support them to help save more lives.” Photo Credit: DepositPhotos.com

  • The Quintessential Gentleman Celebrates Its Power Issue At The Disruptors House

    The Quintessential Gentleman's Disruptors House took center stage at the Sovereign Brands’ Belaire offices in Atlanta. This exclusive pop-up experience, held in celebration of The Power Issue release, brought together a dynamic mix of creatives, entrepreneurs and influencers who are making a significant impact on the cultural landscape of Atlanta. As the official event partners, Sovereign Brands provided guests with a taste of luxury by serving three signature cocktails from their esteemed portfolio, featuring Bumbu Rum, Belaire and McQueen & Violet Fog Gin, each crafted by mixologist Kareem Mobley to embody the essence of power, mirroring the theme of The Power Issue. At the after-work mixer, guests mingled, networked and shared stories of inspiration. From industry thought leaders to rising stars, the room was filled with individuals dedicated to making an impact in their respective fields. The Quintessential Gentleman's Disruptors House is more than just a gathering—it is a testament to the power of community and collaboration. By bringing together like-minded individuals who share a passion for innovation and progress, the event served as a reminder of the collective strength within our backyard. As the evening drew to a close, it was clear that The Disruptors House had succeeded in its mission of celebrating and uplifting those who are driving positive change in Atlanta and beyond. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the ATL disruptors who attended and to Sovereign Brands for their partnership and support in bringing this event to life. Together, we will continue to advocate for the empowerment and recognition of Black men's achievements, both now and in the future. The Quintessential Gentleman's Disruptors House has not only marked a moment in time but has laid the groundwork for what's to come. Check out the house vibes and stay tuned for future events. For more information, follow @originalbumbu, @mcqueenvioletfog and @officialbelaire on Instagram. Photo credit: Christopher Jamar Payne

  • Tyler Perry Inks New Deal With BET Including New Scripted Series 'Route 187'

    BET has struck a new deal with Tyler Perry. The media mogul will now have a renewal of eight of his shows for BET and BET+ streamer. And there will be another new scripted series from Perry called Route 187, according to Variety. As part of the new content deal, renewals include Tyler Perry’s Sistas for its eighth season, Tyler Perry’s The Oval for Season 6, and Tyler Perry’s Assisted Living for a sixth season. Also renewed are Tyler Perry’s House of Payne for its sixth season on BET and 12th overall, Tyler Perry’s Zatima, Tyler Perry’s Ruthless, Tyler Perry’s Bruh and All The Queen’s Men. Perry will executively produce, direct and write Route 187, which is a new scripted series greenlit. This new nonexclusive BET deal replaces Perry’s previous ongoing relationship with BET, which he partnered with in 2019 to create content for both BET and its streaming service, BET+, which expires this year. The agreement also comes after Perry expanded a deal with Netflix, adding a TV series to the mix. The streamer’s multi-year replaced a previous multiyear content partnership “Perry had sealed with Paramount Global in 2017, when the company was known as Viacom.” Over the last four years, Perry at BET has created series such as Sistas and The Oval, which recently hit its 100th episode. These shows would go on to spawn spinoffs such as Zatima, and Ruthless. “Tyler Perry is simply without rival as a creator of content that powerfully resonates with audiences across genres, formats, and platforms,” said BET Media Group president/CEO Scott Mills. “Our programming partnership with Tyler – undoubtably the largest deal ever in the industry with a Black creator – has been hugely successful; delivering the number one series across all TV among Black audiences and five of the top 10 series on cable among Black viewers. We are thrilled to extend our extraordinary relationship with Tyler and to continue to be the home of the largest and most diverse collection of new Tyler Perry content for years to come.” Perry also was one of the moguls looking to purchase BET when Paramount Global flirted with selling the company. “Scott Mills and his team at BET have been incredibly supportive throughout our time working together, and I’m excited to continue bringing these stories to the screen. I’m grateful to our loyal audiences for watching week after week and engaging these stories,” Perry said in a statement. Photo Credits: DepositPhotos.com

  • Supreme Court Denies BLM Leader DeRay Mckesson's Bid To Evade Lawsuit

    The government has laid down its law. The United States Supreme Court rejected Black Lives Matter activist DeRay Mckesson’s bid to evade a lawsuit from an officer who was hit in the head by a rock, which was thrown by an unidentified protester, according to NBC News. Taking place in 2016, McKesson was leading a protest in Baton Rouge following a police killing of a Black man. The protest started after the death of Alton Sterling following an altercation outside a convenience store where he was selling CDs. Represented by the American Civil Liberties Union, Mckesson said his actions leading the protest are protected by the Constitution’s First Amendment, which guarantees free speech as well as the right to assemble. The justices did not dissent from the court’s decision to not hear the case. But liberal Justice Sonia Sotomayor wrote a statement, explaining why the court didn’t have to intervene. She spoke on a recent Supreme Court ruling, which raised some of the same issues that would have a chance to benefit Mckesson as the litigation continues. She said, “The court’s refusal to hear the case expresses no view about the merits of Mckesson’s claim.” Mckesson’s lawyers said that they expect him to eventually prevail in lower courts. "The goal of lawsuits like these is to prevent people from showing up at a protest out of the fear that they might be held responsible if anything happens. But people don’t need to be afraid to show up. The Constitution still protects our right to protest," Mckesson said in a statement. The officer said Mckesson was “negligent under Louisiana law by failing to foresee that the protest could lead to violence.” The lawsuit alleged that the officer lost his teeth and sustained a brain injury. The case has been to many courts. Firstly, a federal judge ruled in 2017 that McKesson couldn’t be sued. But overturning the finding was the New Orleans-based 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. Mckesson appealed to the Supreme Court, which led to a detour in the litigation as justices ordered more analysis on whether Louisiana law allowed for such a claim as the one the officer alleges.

  • The Legacy Continues: 'The Wiz' Returns To Broadway In Spectacular Fashion

    50 years after its first run, The Wiz's return has ignited a firestorm of fans to "ease on down the road" to catch the latest iteration. Based on L. Frank Baum’s children’s book, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, The Wiz takes one of the world’s most enduring white American fantasies and transforms it into an all-Black musical extravaganza for the ages. When Stephanie Mills, then 16 years old, thought of home, she did not envision a place where The Wiz would become a phenomenal moment then and now. Considering that the first Broadway run, where Mills played the title role of Dorothy, almost closed the same night the show opened, having another stellar moment in 2024 has shown the longevity of Black talent and Black music, with seven Tony Awards to prove it. With the 1978 movie musical, which starred the late Michael Jackson and the legendary Diana Ross, and countless high school musicals across the country, The Wiz has been able to dazzle its way across generations. Now with an all-star cast led by Nichelle Lewis as Dorothy, Wayne Brady as The Wiz, Deborah Cox as Glinda, and Avery Wilson as Scarecrow, The Wiz is ready to introduce a new audience to iconic scores packed with soul, gospel, rock and 70s funk to the tale of Dorothy’s journey to find her place in a contemporary world. From the moment the curtains open, you can feel the excitement around the room. The cast did not miss a step on the yellow brick road, and those in the audience fought the urge throughout the show to join in and dance along. The Behind-the-scenes talent of the hit musical shines just as bright as the stars on stage. The show returns with an updated script penned by comedian and writer Amber Ruffin ( The Amber Ruffin Show, Broadway’s Some Like It Hot), direction from Schele Williams ( Motown: The Musical), choreography by JaQuel Knight (Beyoncé’s Single Ladies) and set design by Oscar winner Hannah Beachler (Black Panther). In an interview with The Wrap, producer of The Wiz, Grammy-award winner Kandi Burruss said that production "knew from the jump that [they] were going to be under a microscope from our community, from the culture, about who did these roles because these roles are iconic." Burruss pointed out that she didn’t “want nobody” questioning who was up onstage. “We made sure everybody in this show could sing down!” she added. Brady's version of The Wiz is just as alluring as he is in real life. Bringing a sense of an engaged personality that will make you laugh and at the same time wonder if he likes you or if he is just doing his job to make you feel seen. Cox brings her powerful voice to Glinda, belting out note after note as only a diva can. And Lewis' Dorthy will make the originator, Mills, proud to have her take on that mental. With show-stopping numbers and an ensemble that knows how to have a good time, The Wiz's legacy lives on. The show is only on a limited engagement. Make sure to get tickets before time runs out.

  • Roc Nation To Produce Documentary On The Rucker, The Infamous Street Basketball Tournament

    One of the most famous rap groups in the world will be producing a documentary on one of the more popular basketball leagues in New York City. Roc Nation, along with EverWonder Studios and 3 Legends Productions, will produce a documentary on the Entertainers Basketball Classic (EBC), according to The Hollywood Reporter. The documentary will center on the details of the infamous stories regarding the tourney that gravitated celebrities, NBA players and folks from all over the world. The EBC, also known as The Rucker, was in Harlem near the Polo Grounds on 155th Street and Eighth Avenue, which is Rucker Park. “The Rucker is an integral part of basketball culture. I’m honored to have been a part of its legacy. We’re looking forward to sharing the history in a way that’s never been done before,” says Juan Perez, executive producer and president of Roc Nation Sports in a written statement. The project will also have never-before-seen video footage of some of the classic games played, highlighting the ballplayers who competed in the tournament to dazzle many summers in Harlem. “As individuals who lived the culture that was revolutionized by the EBC, we knew that Juan Perez and Roc Nation were the only ones who would be as passionate about telling this story as we are. We’re thrilled to bring this series to life and showcase the expansive impact of The Rucker,” says executive producer Dorian “Black” Graham, who also played in the tournament during its heydays. The Rucker was started in 1982 by Greg Marius, a rapper with Disco Four, who were signed to Profile Records in 1982. Following organizing a ballgame versus another hip-hop group, the Crash Crew, a crew that was beaten by 59 points, Marius’ group started organizing more games, which prompted an official league. Through the years, the league featured many NYC basketball legends, including Rod Strickland, Malik Sealy, and Stephon Marbury before they became great NBA players. The EBC went on to grow in popularity and become the “must play in” league for all types of basketball players. It also brought out rappers like Fat Joe and Jay-Z, who sponsored and coached the players. Photo Credit: DepositPhotos.com

  • 7 Stellar Tips To Make A Good First Impression On Your Client

    One of the most important steps in building a successful business is creating a good first impression on new clients. While your business plan is important, your client's perception of you can make or break a deal. So, here are some valuable tips to ensure you leave a positive impact from the first day! 1. Be presentable Your physical appearance has a great effect on the overall first impression. Since the other person doesn't know you, they WILL conclude how you carry yourself. In fact, according to experts, 55% of first impressions depend on what a person sees, aka the visuals. So, pay attention to how you dress and groom yourself. However, don't go out of your way to buy new clothes or get groomed at a salon (unless you genuinely want that). Instead, focus on these tips: Consider the dress code of where you'll meet. Wear a suit or blazer in a professional space. Opt for casuals in relaxed environments like a café. Note your client's outfits. If they prefer laid-back outfits, follow suit. This will give the illusion that you both have similar tastes. Accessorize accordingly and ensure your body and mouth smell good. Set your hair neatly with hair mousse or gel. Shave your beard (if you're a man). 2. Prioritize punctuality Punctuality sets you apart and puts you in people's good books – especially in first meetings. So, set out much earlier on the day of the meeting. Reaching the venue 30 minutes early is better than running late and giving lame excuses. Remember to account for possible delays due to traffic, car breakdowns, and wrong turns—even if the route is simple! If it's a virtual meeting, ensure all technical gadgets and connections work well. 3. Never fake your personality To make a good first impression, you must fit into the situation and other people's expectations. However, many people forsake their authenticity and fake a personality to gain the other person's trust. This is a complete disaster! While you adjust to the situations and act friendly, make sure you also act like yourself. It's okay if you are not on the same page as your client. Be honest about your thoughts and convey them respectfully. Your client will notice you're not afraid to be candid about yourself or your work and will respect you even more for your authenticity. They can rely on your company, and you won't mindlessly agree. 4. Smile and shake hands Once you meet the client, smile broadly and extend your hand for a firm handshake. This way, you'll come across as friendly toward them. Make sure your smile appears natural and genuine. Wipe your hands before entering the venue to prevent sweat from building up during the handshake. 5. Build rapport with small talk Don't start discussing business immediately, as that makes you appear inflexible. Other than asking how they are doing, research their background. Learn a few things about their interests and build a connection by talking about those. 6. Exchange contact information Once you've built some rapport, your next step is to exchange business cards with your client. This conveys that you're professional and prepared for the moment. It will be even better to buy metal digital business cards ahead of time. This shows that you care about the environment and ensures they won't lose your contact information. After all, all details are sent on their smartphone with a single tap! Lastly, take a moment to acknowledge their card and compliment them on the designs or other interesting details. This will make you appear down-to-earth even when you use advanced technology. 7. Have an optimistic and confident attitude Your body language and thinking style can majorly impact your first impression. So, here are a few tips to keep in mind: Stand and sit straight to seem disciplined and confident. Make eye contact during the conversation. But look away occasionally to make it seem natural and avoid making them uncomfortable. Be conscious of any signs of nervousness, like biting nails or jittering. Try to keep them in check. If your client criticizes you, be eager to learn from them. Show that no amount of criticism can discourage you. Follow these tips, stay honest, and craft wonderful business plans. And you'll impress any and every client! Photo Credit: DepositPhotos.com

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