5 Reasons Why First Impressions Matter:

In today's world, we are inundated with vast amounts of information amidst constant changes. We can now meet new people effortlessly, thanks especially to advances in transportation and information technology. This compels individuals to make quick decisions. In fact, most decisions are made by our subconscious mind based on past experiences. Therefore, people often make decisions based on first impressions – whether it’s for hiring, collaboration, or friendship.

With that in mind, what comes to your mind when you think about first impressions? Is it physical appearance? Behavior? Or facial expressions? Psychologists say that “First Impressions Are The Last Impressions.” Therefore, we must not underestimate the power of first impressions. Let's explore the reasons why:

1. Every Interaction is an Opportunity

Every day, you have the potential to meet new people. They can become friends, partners, or potential clients. The question is, what first impression do they have of you? If your first impression is good, the new person you meet will be interested in getting to know you further. On the other hand, if the first impression you give is not so great, the chances of forming a further relationship are reduced. Of course, you are also more interested in forming good relationships when others make a great first impression, right?

2. “First impressions are made before we say anything”

According to a study, first impressions occur within the first 20 seconds of meeting someone. In those 20 seconds, 55 percent of impressions are based on appearance, 38 percent on tone and voice, and 7 percent on the words we use. That's why appearance becomes very important, especially in social life.

Within the 55 percent impression based on appearance, a study states in more detail that people first notice the smile (47%), followed by the eyes (31%), body scent (11%), clothing (7%), and lastly hair (4%). Therefore, smile, because your smile is your greatest asset.

3. First Impressions are Closely Related to Subsequent Important Decisions

When you first meet someone, they start making decisions about you within the first 4 seconds of meeting, and complete the decision-making process within 30 seconds. For example, surveys state that 70% of job interviewers make decisions about candidates within that time frame.

After those first 30 seconds, they spend the remaining time justifying whether they were right. Of course, a first impression needs to be supported by a good background of experience and performance. Therefore, the key is to make a good first impression before you even say a word. This is the main challenge today that you must be able to conquer. It’s a shame if you have outstanding experience and performance, but fail to make a good first impression.

4. You Might Not Have a Second Chance

The vast amount of information someone receives makes them filter very quickly what they want to know more about. This also happens during the first meeting. If someone decides they don't like the person they meet, they won't waste more time because there are still many opportunities to meet other people.

Knowing that your time is very limited, making a good first impression to create a long-term relationship becomes very important. Therefore, note that you may not have a second chance to meet and change someone's opinion about you.

5. A Good First Impression Makes You Trustworthy

If you are a businessperson, being trusted can mean getting funding from investors or gaining new clients. If you are a salesperson, being trusted can mean the products or services you offer are bought by others. If you are someone looking for a partner, being trusted can mean forming a more serious relationship with your date.

Now, after knowing that first impressions are very important, the next step is how to create a good first impression?

Start with a Smile

A smile is the first interaction you can make when meeting new people. A smile signifies you as a friendly, pleasant, and confident person. Unfortunately, many people are not confident with their smile.

Often the reason is because of the condition of their teeth, either due to less neat tooth structure or poor dental condition. Actually, in today's era, there is no need to be unconfident because of these factors, because dental technology now offers many better and easier solutions for poor dental conditions.

Respect Your Conversation Partner

A study states that to respect your conversation partner, you must make them feel comfortable. The way to do this is by not speaking too loudly, speaking gently, and using polite words. Additionally, making eye contact, being a good listener, and focusing on the conversation partner instead of other things.

Pay Attention to Appearance

As mentioned above, appearance is the first assessment someone makes when meeting for the first time. Make sure your clothes are clean, neat, and stylish. Also, pay attention to your hair, facial cleanliness, and teeth.

Now, after reading this article, you can prepare yourself to make a better first impression 🙂 Good luck!