How To Make The Best First Impression

As the old saying goes, "You never have a second chance to make a first impression." That can be a scary thought. Some people may see it as unfortunate that within as little as the first few seconds of meeting someone, judgment has been passed. However, if you are prepared, you can help yourself create positive, lasting first impressions. Whether the setting is business or casual, first impressions are made on an everyday basis. Typically we encounter at least one new person each day. According to recent research done at Harvard Medical School entitled Very First Impressions, "Humans are excellent in judging personality traits and complex social characteristics such as dominance, hierarchy, warmth, and threat." So basically, when you meet someone new they decide instantly whether or not they wish to have further communications with you, based on if they feel your personalities match. So the dilemma is this: How can one make an outstanding and unforgettable first impression? There are three key elements to making a first-class initial impression in either the business or social world; showing up on time is the first element of success, smiling comes second, and lastly, remember to use the new acquaintance's name regularly.

I once had a teacher who used to say, "To be early is to be on time, to be on time is to be late, and to be late is...well...unacceptable." Now that I am in the professional field, I realize how true this statement really is. If you are heading to a meeting with someone, particularly for the first time, it is so important that you are at least a few minutes early. Being a little early shows your eagerness and willingness to sacrifice more of your time for your new associate. This concept of being early or on time demonstrates the importance you place on being prepared. Being timely can impact your relationships in both the business and social realm. There are all sorts of implications associated with timeliness in the social world. Imagine the first thoughts that go through a woman's mind if the man she has been set up on a date with is late to meet her somewhere. Likewise, a man can easily judge a female he is picking up for a blind date if she is not ready when he knocks at the door. Take any steps you can to ensure that you are on time for your first meeting. Wake up a little earlier, eat breakfast in the car, and leave some extra drive time just in case there is traffic. Your sacrifice of five or ten minutes can ultimately impact your chances of nailing the job, getting a second date, or being interviewed for the next employment opportunity.

A smile is the perfect way to show someone you are interested. You may be interested in their company or creating a friendship, either way, you can never go wrong with a warm, inviting smile. If you feel uncomfortable smiling, or like you just look fake, imagine that the person you have just me is a close friend. This will help you relax a little, causing you to naturally give a casual smile throughout the conversation. Another great reason to smile is that by smiling, it is actually possible and likely you will begin to feel positive feelings for the new contact you have just met!

In addition to being on time and smiling, it is important to actually listen to what your new acquaintance says—particularly at the very beginning when they mention their name. Once they have said their name, repeat it in your mind five times and try to record it to your memory. Then, make a point of using their name at least three or four times throughout your conversation. It does not so much matter what you say, but your new association will remember that you used their name. Use of your new acquaintance's name demonstrates that you have paid attention from the beginning because you were able to catch and retain their name during the introductions. By using someone else's name during a conversation, members of both parties feel more comfortable, because suddenly the conversation has turned to a more personal level.

Once a first impression is made, it is virtually irreversible. It is important that both parties involved in the initial meeting feel completely comfortable. By being on time, smiling and using the name of the person you just met, you can help create that comfortable environment that will lead to a positive first impression, and maybe even a potential job or friendship.