No matter how much we might think that we are non-judgemental everyone is ‘guilty’ of making first impressions about people, whether that’s in business or other aspects of everyday life.  It’s estimated that it can take as little as 3 seconds for us to make an initial first impression whether we do it consciously or subconsciously.   In this short space of time, we have formed an opinion based on appearance, body language, demeanour, mannerisms and physical appearance.

With every new encounter, we are evaluated and another person’s impression is formed.  These first impressions can be nearly impossible to undo, making first contact a very important one as this sets the tone for all relationships that follow. 

So, whether first encounters are in your career or social life, it’s important to know how to create a good first impression.

BE ON TIME – The person you meet for the first time will not be interested in your “good excuse”.  Arrive early rather than late, allow extra time for travelling

BE YOURSELF, BE AT EASE – If you are calm and confident this will make a good first impression and make the other person feel at ease.

PRESENT YOURSELF APPROPRIATELY – Physical appearance matters as this will usually be one of the first clues to form an impression.  Appropriate dressing and grooming helps to make you feel the part so therefore makes you feel more calm and confident and helps you on your way to creating a food first impression.

“SMILE AND THE WORLD SMILES TOO” – A warm confident smile will create a great first impression, but don’t go overboard as it can seem insincere and smarmy.

BE OPEN AND CONFIDENT – When it comes to making first impression, body language as well as appearance speaks louder than words.
Use your body language to project appropriate confidence and self-assurance.  Stand tall, smile, make eye contact, greet with a firm handshake.  All this will help to project confidence.

SMALL TALK GOES ALONG WAY.... - Conversations are based on verbal give and take.  Prepare questions by researching the person or company beforehand.
BE POSITIVE – Your attitude can show through in everything you do.  Project a positive attitude and maintain an upbeat manner, even in the face of criticism or in the case of nervousness. 

BE COURTEOUS AND ATTENTIVE – It goes without saying that good manners and polite, attentive and courteous behaviour is big attribute to creating a first impress.   Your new acquaintance deserves 100% of your attention and nothing less.

“Managing how people perceive you is crucial to your success at work and other aspects or your life.  It’s not just limited to making a first impressions – in fact, managing impressions is a lifetime of labour and will take careful maintenance if you want it to pay off.”