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Think back to the last time you met someone new. What was the first thing you noticed? Maybe it was a stylish outfit, or a minor annoyance like them standing just a bit too close to you in an office or your classroom.
Does a first impression really matter? Absolutely. It often decides if you get that second job interview, an offer from a top university, or a second date.
Studies show we sum people up in the blink of an eye. A study on neuroscientific research on impression formation shows that our brains lock these early opinions into long-term memory. These judgements shape our ongoing behaviours toward others based on the informations and details we notice, such as body language, facial expressions, clothing, tone of voice, posture, and the way they initiate or end, etc. To some, it is indeed a difficult task, knowing you have to impress to get your job done. To achieve that, we can learn techniques and habits to practice every day and make ourselves noticeable during first encounters.
Have control over your body language
We communicate far more through our actions than through our spoken words. Our body language tells others exactly how we feel and what we think of them. What can we do in that case?
Stand openly
Face the person directly to show you are interested. Try not to cross your arms, as this can make you look unfriendly. Make eye contact easy and comfortably. Look at their face when you first say hello, then look back at their eyes now and then as you talk.
Hide your fidgeting
If you need to move, try wiggling your toes inside your shoes instead of tapping your foot loudly. This can distract anyone, giving all the attention to your feet rather than to you.
Words do matter
It helps to turn on a filter when you meet someone new. It is very easy to accidentally say something hurtful, rude, judgmental or overconfident when you do not know anything about a person's background.
Try to avoid harsh statements like "I hate/I love/I do."They sound self-imposing and might make one feel a bit annoyed, and a total waste of time to have a conversation.
Sharing strong, critical views right away can make people judge you quickly. So listen more and listen carefully before you say anything.
Showing real interest
People always remember someone who seemed truly interested in them, and they find comfort when someone shows them respect and importance. To show real interest, one can start with nice questions. Listening is key here, and ask a simple question about what they just said.
Keep the conversation flowing naturally
Use easy phrases like, "That sounds great or cool. I would love to hear more." Or even if you disagree, you can acknowledge the other one.
Be honest
Only give compliments that you truly mean. People can easily spot fake praise.
Adjusting your inner thoughts
Even if you do not say your negative thoughts out loud, your feelings can still show on your face. If you feel annoyed because an interviewer is late, that irritation shows in your voice. Instead, look for the bright side, use a sense of humour to laugh off awkward moments, and stay open-minded.
Small talk works
Chatting about everyday topics like the weather or the environment is one of the easiest ways to break the ice.
Noticing little details about someone's sticker on a notebook, sharing personal details about hobbies, or giving a genuine compliment about their shoes or their work is a good idea. It creates a positive image about you.
Facial expression
When you show positive emotions, people assume you have great personality traits. Positive gestures, thoughts, smile make people more comfortable.
Choosing the right attire
Your attire tells a quick story about your personality. One can build a great impression by practising simple rules of attire.
Dress for the room
Swap your loungewear for a neat, smart-casual look before professional video calls. Keep the colours light to keep the environment cool.
Wear what makes you feel good
Choose a favourite outfit that makes you feel comfortable rather than stiff, brand-new clothes.
Keep things in mind
At the end of the day, first impressions happen incredibly fast. People judge you in just a fraction of a second. Instead of stressing, focus on kindness and trust that the right people will take the time to get to know who you really are.
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