It’s been proven that indeed first impressions do matter. But it’s also been said that first impressions are often cured by a second look, especially on Facebook. So whether it’s for a job interview, a hot blind date, or for any other purpose when you’re initially meeting someone new for the very first time.
Mounds of research suggests that we do pay particular attention on taking and then remembering first impressions and interactions, as that thought will strongly resonate in our minds.
So regardless if you’re spiffed up for that date, or that sought after job interview, with halitosis in check, it’s extremely important to make that very first initial contact be an impressive one, so make it memorable.
So in a lot of ways, the invention of speed dating or even speed interviewing at job fairs makes a lot of sense. Most will generally form an opinion in the very first split second or two upon first contact, without any words spoken or any other information.
Why even bother going through a long winded interview process or drinks at the lounge, while being forced to get dragged through the, at times, painful initiation process when you know the majority of the decision, whether if a person likes you or not, has already been subconsciously decided.
But first contact is a two way street. What the other person initially thinks and feels about you in that first second, you will have established your own impressions about that person as well. And based on research, the feeling is generally mutual.
So here are a few proven ways on how you can make that first impression a good one.
Be As Natural And Relaxed As Possible
Portraying strong true genuine ethics is always important. So if you’re attempting to “fake it till you make it,” most will see right through that. What doing so does is it exposes your shallowness, making you come across as a phony, unless you’re an extremely good actor.
Not being your true self can also be morally problematic and unsustainable. It becomes difficult to keep up that false persona impression for very long, unless you really do have an anti-social personality disorder. So just be yourself, be natural, when you try too hard to impress someone, it reveals a fake version of yourself.
Make Sure You’re Organized Before The Initial Interaction
It could be that important job interview which you crave, or making a strong impression at that high profile social event. Make sure that you prepare beforehand by organizing and centering yourself which should pay big dividends.
So spend a few minutes to relax yourself the best way you know how. Meditate, go for a workout or repeat your favorite mantra may help. Do whatever you need to do to organize as well as soothe yourself as much as possible.
Know What You Should Be Saying
Your initial words spoken can carry pounds of mileage, especially if it’s leading or deceptive, but what’s more important is your nonverbal communication. The first contact, before any words are said tends to amplify a lot louder when it comes to making a good impression on that first meeting.
So pay attention to your posture, initiate eye contact, shake hands firmly, mind your manners, and know the other known nonverbal communication skills which you need to use. Look in a mirror and ask yourself what your aura illuminates.
What You Wear Does Matter
So true that you’re not a fashion diva. You may not exactly be a style conscious type of guy or gal by any means. But there’s truth in the saying “Dressing For Success.” The clothes that you wear along with proper grooming habits does matter, especially when it comes to making a favorable first impression.
It’s important because upon first contact, how others judge you is what dictates how they instantly behave and react to you. So pay strict attention to how you dress, it’s always safe to be conservative and appropriate. Also make sure that you pass the grooming test, so you’ll send the right message which you’re wanting to portray.
No, It’s Never About You… Ever
It’s easy for your ego to take over and make the focus to be on yourself during any initial first interaction. Sure confidence can be a strong point, but it can also be a huge distraction and become annoying.
Focus rather on the other person as much as you can. Attend to that person by asking relevant questions and attempting to see what they see in you, through their eyes.
This way, you’ll connect a lot better and a lot quicker. This will also open up your ability to be yourself, your best self, which portrays you as being thoughtful and compassionate.
Making a positive first impression is vitally important to your welfare, it’s your first test in meeting someone new for the first time. So make the best of it when presented with the opportunity. Begin by taking these strategies to work.