These 5 first impression fundamentals can help you succeed in every area of your life. You may not get more than one shot at success, so be prepared.
Most people don’t realize how important first impressions really are. Close your eyes and count to three: 1…2…3. Those few brief seconds are about how long you have to make a first impression and it’s almost impossible to modify or overcome it if you mess it up, so don’t. Facial expressions, physical gestures and overall non-verbal behaviors generally account for 60-90% of our communication! Even our clothes make a huge difference…ever heard of “enclothed cognition?” This is real science people! Clothing affects how other people perceive us as well as how we think about ourselves. These 5 quick fix tips will help you step up your game in no time!
5 QUICK TIPS:
1) Always look your best
No matter how non-judgmental the other person is, sub-consciously people can’t help but notice your appearance. From your clothing, to your face, hair, shoes, even your glasses, bag and other accessories…it matters. Always look well put together and people will notice. This doesn’t mean you have to dress up everywhere you go, in fact quite the opposite. Dress appropriately for the occasion and always make sure you are stain, rip (unless intentional) and wrinkle free. It shows other people that you care about yourself and they will more easily believe you take care in other things you do as well.
2) Maintain friendly eye contact
Eye contact is so important, especially today when so many people have their faces buried in their devices. Make eye contact (without staring) and you’ll be amazed at how much easier it is to create connections. People love to be heard and feel important. This goes a long way to making that happen.
3) Have a firm handshake
This is so simple and so effective. When someone firmly shakes your hand, they seem to be more present and potentially even have more substance. It is also a sign of confidence to have that firmer grip.
4) Smile
Friendliness goes a long way to creating relationships of all kinds. This is another great way to connect. Smiling helps the other person know that you are acknowledging their presence and are happy to meet/speak with them. People like to be liked.
5) Listen more than you talk
This is arguably the most important of all the tips. You will learn much more by listening thoughtfully than talking. Everything is not all about you, and making someone else feel listened to and understood is one of the quickest way to make a great impression.
These 5 quick fix tips will immediately help you make a better, longer lasting first impression.
XOXO,
Jaq
