credit: blog.sweetcareersconsulting.com
There is never a second chance for a first impression; it comes once and lasts for a very long time. Most people will judge you within the first few seconds of meeting you and their opinion will most likely never change. Making a good first impression is incredibly important. First foot best foot; you only have one chance, make it count. It takes just a quick momentary look for someone to evaluate you when you meet for the first time. In this short time, the other person forms an opinion about you based some key things; appearance, body language, conduct, habitual gestures and how you are dressed. First impressions set the tone for all the relationships that follows. Be it in your career or social life, it is important to know how to create a good first impression.
Be on Time: Timing tells a lot about a person,someone you are meeting for the first time is not interested in your excuses for running late. Plan to arrive a few minutes early. And allow flexibility for possible delays in traffic. Time is money, a priceless jewel that can’t be bought. Arriving early is much better that arriving late, and is the first step in creating a great first impression.
Present Yourself Appropriately: Physical appearance matters, clothes, make-up, jewellery, watches and shoes etc. are taken into account when making initial judgments. The person you are meeting for the first time does not know you so your appearance is usually the first clue he or she has to go on. The key to a good impression is to present yourself appropriately. For business and social meetings, dress to suit the occasion. Appropriate dressing and grooming help make a good first impression and also make you feel more calm and confident.
Be cognizant of Your Body Language. Body language is a crucial part of first impressions as it reveals 85 % of human communication. Everything from your posture to how you carry yourself to the way you’re angling your body. Often, simply being aware of your body language can result in immediate improvements. Subconscious cues to keep in mind include noticing where you point your feet, the position of your shoulders, and the way you sway your hands.
Be interested, interesting and confident. Be that person you would love to meet. Use your body language to project appropriate confidence and self-assurance. If you are truly open, interested in meeting people and learning about who they are, they will get this in a first impression. Stand tall, smile, make eye contact, greet with a firm handshake if necessary. All of this will help you project confidence and encourage both you and the other person to feel at ease. This is often contagious and you will have better conversations and lasting connection.
Be Courteous and Attentive: It goes beyond the bars of good manners; attentiveness and courteous behaviour help make a good first impression. Anything less can ruin your chances of making that first great impression. What first impression will you create if you keep speaking to someone other than the person you are meant to be meeting with? Your new acquaintance deserves your attention. Anything less and you’ll create a less than good first impression.
Be genuine/Stay positive: In any situation, it is important to be yourself. Genuine people are more likable even if they don’t always fit in. You have to find what works for you. Be confident, strong, and prepare to put your best foot forward. As the saying goes, “you never get a second chance to make a first impression.
Close on a excellent note. Keep them wanting more. Show that you had a really good time and would like to see them again. People on a first date not only want to have a good time, but they want to know that you did as well. They want that reassurance. If you’re on a job interview, know something about the company! In fact, know as much as you possible can about it. This takes you a step closer to becoming part of the family.
In general never be rude about people’s beliefs, religious or moral ethnics. A nice comment about appearance is also appropriate. With every new encounter, you are evaluated and yet another person’s impression of you is formed so make it count, you only have one shot, ensure you hit the bull’s-eyes.
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