You’re at a networking event, and you’ve just been introduced to someone new. How do you make a lasting first impression that makes them remember you?
Or remember that first date you went on? What was your first impression of that person? It’s a cold, hard fact of life: people make up their minds about you within seconds of meeting you. Even if they haven’t seen your face yet!
You’ve heard it before- First Impressions are everything. Or that you never get a Second chance to make a First Impression. But what does that actually mean?
When you meet someone for the first time, they’re going to make a snap judgment about you—whether consciously or unconsciously. And if that initial impression doesn’t jive with who you really are and what your intentions are, things can go south quickly. You want to look organized and put-together—not like someone who just rolled out of bed after staying up late binge-watching Netflix. It’s important to know what kinds of impressions you want to make during those first few moments so that you can steer the conversation in the right direction.
The first impression is the most important one. It’s a gut-level, subconscious reaction that can make or break your interactions with others. Creating a lasting first impression can be daunting. So, what are you going to do to give yourself the best possible chance of making that lasting first impression?
Here is how we recommend creating that lasting First impression with E.A.S.E:
1. Engage Enthusiastically:
with the person you meet for the first time. Make an eye contact but don’t stare! Looking someone in the eye is a sign of respect and interest; staring is creepy as hell and will get you nowhere fast. Your body language can make or break your first impression—so be aware of it! Make sure you’re looking people in the eye when you talk, not just staring at their shoes. And keep your hands open and relaxed, rather than clenched or folded over belly-button level.
2. Be Authentic – Be Yourself:
Relaxed confidence is much more attractive than forced confidence—and it’s much more genuine. Be prepared and ask open questions that lead to having genuine conversations. Be open and friendly, but don’t overwhelm the person you’re meeting with too much information at once. Ask questions that show interest in them—but make sure those questions are genuine and sincere. You can do this by asking questions about their background, interests, and goals.
3. Start with a Smile:
People who smile more are perceived as more trustworthy, competent, and friendly than those who don’t. People who smile also tend to be happier, so it’s no surprise that smiling makes people feel more confident about themselves. Just think of something pleasant (like your favorite memory) and let it come across naturally on your face while making eye contact with them during conversation. This will help them feel at ease around you right away.
3. Be Empathetic:
Listen more than you talk. Make sure you’re paying attention when someone is speaking and taking time to understand their perspective before responding. Don’t be too pushy—you want people to feel comfortable around you, not pressured into doing things they don’t want or need to do. If you want the other person to feel comfortable around you, try smiling and leaning forward slightly as they speak. This will help them feel more relaxed and open up more easily. Think about what the other person might be feeling. This isn’t guesswork; it’s just thinking about what they might be thinking, or feeling, or experiencing.
Here are few more ways you can create that lasting First Impression:
- Dress appropriately for the occasion. Create an impact and impress people positively with the way you dress. Add Grace to your wardrobe to look more attractive and appealing.
- Be confident in yourself and your abilities. Let your personality shine through.
- Be on time. Being late makes a strong first impression: that you’re disorganized, flaky, and probably not someone you want to work with.
- Use body language that conveys openness and confidence (e.g., standing straight with your shoulders back).
- Be mindful of how much space you take up in conversation. Be conscious of how much time passes between each part of your message (especially if it’s longer than 10 seconds).
- Ensure to keep a good personal hygiene. Your nails and hair must be well groomed.
Your Personal Presentation and your Positive attitude will help you build great rapport with your customers, colleagues, friends and anyone you want to create an instant connection with. Hope you enjoyed reading these handy tips on Lasting First Impressions. Subscribe to Auracious bi-weekly Newsletter if you would like to know more on how to achieve personal and professional excellence!
