The way someone sees you for the first time means so much. That’s why learning how to make a good first impression is so important.
Whether it’s for a new job or a social event, a good first impression leaves your company with a long-standing view of you. It doesn’t matter how you appear the second or third meeting.
They will always remember their first introduction, and this is the image that tends to last.
Science proves first impressions matter
It’s no mystery that the first impression makes or breaks the deal sometimes. When it comes to finding a new job, learning how to make a good first impression is the difference between getting hired and being passed over for the next guy.
First impressions also govern whether there will be second dates, more social events and even if friends remain friends.
There are a few science-backed hacks to ensure your first impression sticks.
1. Your appearance
One of the most important things that define whether you to make a good or bad first impression is appearance. How you dress, how you wear your hair, and even how you smell play serious roles in your first impressions.
Depending on the situation, you will need to dress accordingly and pay close attention to detail. Your jewelry matters, and even your shoes. All these things can either help you get a job or make your prospective employer doubt your capabilities.
2. Posture
The way you stand or sit means so much to those who are paying close attention. Sitting or standing in a slumped manner usually sends the message that you are lazy or irresponsible.
When you’re meeting someone for the first time, make sure you sit or stand up straight and look confident. This will send quite a different message, saying, “I am listening and I am reading to act.”
3. Eye contact
While you should never stare at someone, you should make eye contact. Whether it’s s social gathering or a business situation, making eye contact lets the other person know that you are paying complete attention.
It also says that you respect your counterpart. Making contact does something else as well. It also shows your confidence which other people respect.
4. Avoid showing up moody
If you have a bad day on Friday, don’t try to attend a social function that same night. Unless you can snap out of a bad mood in a few hours, attending a social function while moody will destroy your first impression.
Most of the time, negative feelings will translate from one situation to another. If you want to master the art of making good first impressions, remember to coach yourself to be positive before the time of the meeting or function.
5. Face others or point your toes towards them
When you are speaking with someone, make sure you face them directly. Also, make sure that your toes are pointed toward them as well, as this shows them that you are interested.
This stance also shows that you aren’t going anywhere and wish to find a resolution or make a decision at the present time. It shows strength and confidence and proves that you are a contender.
6. The handshake
A good handshake shows self-worth. Now, to perfect the handshake, you might want to practice on friends or family. If your handshake is too weak, it shows weakness, and if your handshake is too strong, then that will just intimidate others.
If you can perfect a stable and firm handshake, you will be able to win people over in the beginning. This opens them for the things you wish to say. They will pay more attention to what you want and your ideas.
7. Show trust
There are a few ways to show trust during the first encounter. You can listen to what the other person has to say, thus regulating how much you talk. You can keep your hands out of your pockets, as this shows respect.
If you can just relax, you show the other person that you trust them, and this allows them to talk more. This says that you are just as interested in what they have to say with as your own ideas.
Why first impressions mean so much
Learning to make a good first impression means so much because people are just so busy. It takes a long time to get to know one another, and so first impressions help us get an overall sense of strangers. Although first impressions are not perfect, they do help us learn who we can trust and who will do these things they proclaim.
If you’re looking for ways to improve how others see you, then it’s easier than you think. There are many sources to help you train yourself to ace the first impression. Use these basics to practice, and before you know it, you will be able to make a great first impression on most anybody.
Now get out there and do your best!
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