According to INC.com, people judge you in the first seven seconds that they meet you. This is why you always need to put your best foot forward and make a good first impression.
It’s unfortunate that people will judge you within seconds of laying eyes on you, but you probably do the exact same thing to others. With a simple glance at a new acquaintance, a rash opinion will be made. It’s human nature.
People will immediately assess your appearance, manners, body language, voice, and attitude. Within seconds they are answering questions like: Can I trust her? Will she be a good employee? Is she likable? Is she nice? Is she genuine? Will she be the professional I need to hire? Based on what they see, they make assumptions about how you make them feel.
How you make someone feel is of the utmost importance. Feelings are powerful and people will judge you and decide how you make them feel in mere seconds. This is why first impressions are the most important 7 seconds of your life. It’s your chance to shine and be the person you want to be. Every time you meet someone either professionally or socially you need to be on your best behavior. Remember, life is all about who you know in your network.
Find More Tips On Making A Good First Impression
Of course we all botch a first impression now and again. It’s not an insurmountable loss, especially if you scramble and pick up the pieces right away. Over the course of your first meeting, be sure to:
- Give a healthy handshake.
- Smile.
- Dress appropriately.
- Make natural conversation and avoid awkward silences.
- Embrace cultures and traditions.
- Have good posture.
- Make eye contact.
- Be confident.
- Be yourself.
- Speak clearly.
- Have your 30-second resume ready to roll.
- Turn off your cell phone.
- Be on time.
- Be interesting.
You never have a second chance to make a first impression. Approach every interaction with this mentality. You never know who you’re going to meet and how that person might be able to help you out in the future.
Do your best to shine in the first 7 seconds and set yourself up for the success that you deserve. You want people to like you and to feel good about knowing you. That’s what first impressions are all about.