In rapid fire succession, we humans make hundreds of first impressions quickly on anyone and anything on a daily basis. This to save time, to decide whether to move on or to stay. We assess others quickly and spontaneously, within split-seconds based on how they appear, and they do so on us.
How we decide to dress, stand, talk, laugh, chew our food, how we look at them, the aura we project, comes under instant scrutiny.
We do so within the instance of contact, we scan an impression on them. We do so without having any previous interaction with them whatsoever.
The problem, especially if this first impression is negative, even if we find we’re initially wrong on this instinct, can be a difficult thing to overcome.
This can stifle or snuff out any potential relationship, unless you reconsider your stance.
Don’t Judge But Be Curious
Are first impressions really cured by a second look, remain to be open to new information. What it does is encourages us to rush towards curiosity, rather than judgment.
We want to realize we don’t know the entire story, that it’s better not to assume. Once this happens, what we tend to do is reconsider.
We can connect with others better or pass without forming an opinion. We can notice or observe without labelling, stop defining without knowing the details.
You know the consequences once one assumes. When the entire story isn’t known, the initial negative impression can quickly change in opinion, based on the new information received.
Once you have the opportunity to think about and analyze this new data, at times you’ll rethink your initial first impression.
If you’re distracted when receiving that new information however, or if it’s incomplete, you are then less likely to reconsider that opinion.
How To Make A Good First Impression
First impressions as a result does matter. Whether interviewing for a job, a blind date, or for any other purpose, what we always remember is our first impression of a person.
Most often, we form judgment regarding others far too quickly, at times jumping to conclusions. What’s also known is jumping to conclusions is the only mental exercise some people take.
Why would you intentionally give off a bad impression, as how you appear is usually your call.
Become Mindful And Organized
For whatever occasion it may be, it’s up to you to prepare yourself moments before meeting someone, by organizing and self-centring yourself, as doing so will pay dividends.
So spend a minute in solitude to gather yourself, to look your best and most productive. What some will do is breathe deeply, or meditate in silence for a few minutes, as that’s all is required.
Be Your Best And Genuine Self
Good ethics are extremely important, so attempting to fake it to be someone you’re not, can become problematic and unsustainable, while others will usually sense something isn’t right.
What you also can’t do is keep up that false front consistently for long, unless you’re an accomplished stage actor, or have an anti-social personality disorder.
At all times, you should be your natural genuine self, and remain so at all times.
Know The Non-Verbal Signals You’re Sending Out
The first words you speak at times can be deceptive, usually not on purpose, but because of nervousness or uncertainly on how you’re feeling.
It’s your initial non-verbal communication which speaks volumes of truth on who you are, the aura you send out when meeting someone for the first time.
Always be mindful by paying close attention to your posture, how you stand, your initial manner. Make eye contact, if it’s appropriate for the situation.
Ask yourself what they will think about you when they first meet you, while you’ll also do the same as you meet them. Concentrate on how you come across before you speak.
Appropriately Dress To Impress
How you dress and how you wear it, is the first impression and snapshot you portray. What’s key is dressing appropriately for the situation, being on trend and fashionable yet conservative.
There’s no need to be that fashion forward by any means, but be more aware of not looking out of place.
What’s important is the clothes you wear for the occasion, and how you groom yourself speaks volumes on who you are and what you think of yourself.
This matters in terms of how others will place judgment on you, the influence you have on how you behave.
Also groom your hair fashionably, wear appropriate shoes, easy on the makeup and cologne, to project and send forward the best message you can.
It’s Never About You
Although you may think me, myself and I are more important, and believe you’re the focal point of any meeting, realize you’re just one part.
By thinking so, you’ll appear too egotistical leaning towards narcissism, when focusing too much on yourself.
This is a fatal error many make. To make a good first impression, especially when it’s a social or business related meeting, make sure you place the focus on them as often as you can.
It’s hardly ever about you, so make sure you attend promptly to the other person. Make them the focal point.
Begin by immediately asking appropriate questions, attempting to see the world through their eyes, and then project how they would see your world.
Not only will you connect better with them, but will find yourself more comfortable and relaxed as you’re projecting your best self forward.
What it then forces them to do is become more thoughtful of you, making yourself more likeable.