10 Tips For Creating A Great First Impression

It might not seem fair, but the first impression you give someone is hard to shake.

As soon as you meet someone, their subconscious has already started to make a decision about you. Studies suggest the number of seconds for this process to occur may be anywhere from 7 – 60.

Not only that, these first impressions last a long time and can be difficult to change.

This is why making a good first impression is so important.

If you want to make sure you put your best foot forward, then here are some tips for you:

Dress To Impress

Taking the time to groom yourself in the morning (or as close to an important meeting or appointment as is practical) is time well spent, because you will not only feel more confident, but you will also make sure you are ready to impress.

And, of course, this is not only about your clothes but about your personal hygiene too.

Remember, first impressions start as soon as somebody sees you, and if you don’t look the part, it is going to affect how people feel about you – regardless of the things you say.

But also remember to dress appropriately for the situation – while it’s obvious that being underdressed for an important business meeting is a major faux pas, there are circumstances where being overdressed can also create the wrong impression.

Be Prepared

Doing your research beforehand is a great way to make sure you create a good first impression.

If this appointment is work-related, whether it’s a job interview or a meeting, then having some basic facts and information at your fingertips will make you look more professional.

And if it’s a personal meeting (e.g. a first date), then be careful – it it looks like you’ve been spying on them, or stalking them, you may come over as being creepy, which is usually a huge turn-off.

Be Punctual

If you are meeting someone for the first time, whether it’s a business appointment or a date, it is vital that you show up on time.

Being late to a meeting – especially that first one – is a guaranteed way to make a bad first impression.

People value their time, as should you, and they don’t take kindly towards those who want to waste it.

One caveat here – different cultures have different perceptions about time and punctuality, so do make sure you double-check what will be appropriate in your specific situation.

Smile

A warm, sincere smile is one of the best ways to put people at ease.

If you show up at a meeting and you look angry and miserable, that will be the first thing people think about you.

Of course, you shouldn’t go overboard, but be quick with a smile when meeting someone.

And remember – people can tell the difference between a real smile and a fake one. (I talk about this in more detail in my article about overcoming camera shyness.)

Watch Your Body Language

Since first impressions are so wrapped up in how people perceive your appearance (i.e. your image), you need to focus at all times on what your body language is saying.

For example, you can dress the part and smile, but if your arms are crossed in front of your chest, which is one of several closed gestures, you will still come over as not being open and welcoming.

The key thing here is that what you say, how you say it (e.g. your tone of voice), and your body language all need to be congruent, otherwise people are likely to feel ill at ease with you, because while they may not be able to put it into words, they will sense something isn’t quite right.

Watch Your Volume

When you finally get to the point of speaking, make sure you use the correct volume.

If you are too loud, it can come off as aggressive or boisterous.

And if you speak too softly, you could come over as being insincere or unconfident.

Listen

Have you ever had a conversation where the other person talks so much you can’t get a word in edgeways?

Nobody likes being in this situation, so if you want to make a great first impression, make sure you listen to people as often as you speak.

Show Genuine Interest

Once you are engaged in conversation, make sure you do your best to show genuine interest.

For example, answer questions when asked, and ask follow-up questions to thoughts that you find interesting (which you can only do if you actually listen to what they are saying).

People can tell when you are not paying attention to them, and you will find it hard to gain rapport if they think you’re not interested.

Contribute To The Conversation

While listening is essential, being completely silent is a problem in its own right.

It is hard to build a rapport or impress anyone if you refuse to take part in the conversation.

So, pick your opportunities and add your perspective when there is a suitable opening, but without interrupting, of course.

And yes, I get that this can be difficult for some people, including introverts such as myself, where you need time to consider your response.

Don’t Overthink It

While making an excellent first impression is important, you shouldn’t focus on it too much.

If you are stuck inside your head, obsessed with making a good first impression, you might come off as unnatural or trying too hard.

Being calm, confident, and collected is the best way to help you make a great first impression. 

Conclusion

Making a great first impression is not that difficult if you make use of the above tips, but here are three things you can do that will help you prepare:

1. Think about the next time you need to make a good first impression. Plan out the outfit you will wear for that event – because having your outfit planned will help you feel more confident right off the bat.
2. Think about two or three talking points you can use if the conversation starts to flag. Write these down and memorize them, so that you will have some conversation starters when they are most needed. (You can also find some ice-breakers here.)
3. Practise your body language. This might seem silly at first, but just like any skill, body language can be improved with practice. Stand in front of a mirror and try to look casual but confident, and if you feel silly doing that, ask a trustworthy friend for advice.

Additional Resources

These are suggestions for those who wish to delve deeper into any of the above:

1. Active Listening Course
2. Body Language
3. First Impressions