First impressions determine how people initially view one another. While it is often possible for people to change their opinions of each other over time, first impressions are usually long-lasting. First impressions are pertinent in every level of our lives, sometimes affecting the outcome of important decisions which have a direct impact on you.
Typically important on first dates or job or college interviews, first impressions are dependent upon a variety of personality aspects, detailed below.
Features
Everyone makes and receives first impressions, which directly affect the way others see each other in the future. There are several components of first impressions. More importantly, the first impression you would want to present for one person or business might not be the first impression you might want to present for another. Meeting your partner's parents, for example, will likely require offering a different impression than you might to her or his friends.
Effects
There are many positive potential effects to making a good first impression. By presenting yourself well, you could win your partner's parents approval, land a fantastic job, or get a second date. These effects also spill over to your friends, family, and other associates. If you handle a problem particularly well in the corporate world, for example, the person who received the positive first impression will now have a generally uplifting feeling regarding your company in general, and may tell others.
Potential
The potential of a good first impression is practically unlimited. Celebrities, politicians, and rock stars are all in influential positions in large part due to their ability to make positive first impressions on people who then support them. Continually positive first impressions can help you get promoted more quickly, or reach out to others in a personal or professional capacity.
First impressions also tend to be the most memorable. Years later, people often recall when they first met other people and what the others looked and sounded like at that time.
Time Frame
The time frame in which to make a first impression is very limited. Others notice key first impression elements such as manner of dress initially and begin to complete their first impression immediately after you begin speaking.
Warning
Never go out of your comfort zone in an attempt to make a positive first impression. Being yourself is generally the best way to make a first impression, but don't change your entire personality or wardrobe just to fit in. Rather, be mindful of your surroundings and sensitive in what you say to others.
Considerations
Clothing and appearing generally presentable are extremely important in all first impression situations. If you want to make a good first impression, you should be clean and do something to indicate you have spent some amount of time on your appearance (combing your hair, applying cologne, wearing makeup) even if only in the slightest sense. Your clothing also says a great deal about you in the eyes of others. Be sure to dress appropriately considering the person or people you're meeting.
The way you speak is also crucial to making a decent first impression. Using intelligent speech with a flowing vocabulary will assist you in making the right first impression. Slang and curse words generally do not constitute a good first impression. Avoid using words like "yeah" and "no problem" in place of more sincere words such as "yes" and
ou're welcome."
Carrying yourself with overall confidence is an excellent way to ensure a positive first impression.
