8 Ways to Make a Positive First Appearance

Warning you will be judged faster than you say judged

We have all heard about the power of a first impression. Given how important first impressions are it is vital you learn how to manage them. Let’s begin with a few facts in case you are not convinced of how important first impressions are.

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“In less than one-tenth of a second of seeing someone for the first time, our brain processes information about the person’s face — which leads to quick conclusions about a new acquaintance’s qualities, including trustworthiness, competency, friendliness, honesty and morality” — according to a 2006 study published in Psychological Science. (Shortsleeves, 2018, p.1).

“Most of us believe the first impressions we come up with, too, says Alexander Todorov, a professor of psychology at Princeton University and author of Face Value: The Irresistible Influence of First Impressions.” (Shortsleeves, 2018, p.1).

A first impression is very hard to change because it becomes a filter that we use to judge future relations with that person. (Waters, 2021)

To make matters worse first impressions are largely subconscious and thus extremely hard to change. (Waters, 2021)

On the positive side, positive first impressions carry similar power. Here are some tips for making that all-important first impression.

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1. Eye Contact

Making eye contact is a powerful non-verbal form of communication that is taken for honesty, it shows person you are speaking to respect, and it demonstrates that you are listening to them.

2. Smile

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A genuine smile puts people at ease and gives the impression of trust and sincerity. (Waters, 2021)

3. Dress