FIRST IMPRESSION FORM QUICKLY

 FIRST IMPRESSION FORM QUICKLY

This is because first impressions can form very quickly, and they are crucial.Have you ever met someone for the first time and thought, "I like him/her/would like to like them"? Perhaps they were warm, made eye contact and greeted you with confidence. Maybe they weren't paying attention; maybe you just didn't feel like talking to them. This is because the first impression is extremely fleeting, and usually only lasts a few seconds.

 

The researchers of psychology have discovered that our brain are programmed to make quick judgements of people, places and environments. Although these snap judgments are not always correct, they can certainly shape the way we will behave and make decisions. Knowing all about the first impression will benefit your daily communication, career and relationship.

 

What is a first impression?

 

A First impression is the initial opinion or feeling that a person has on meeting someone or encountering something new. It occurs before you have enough time to obtain information. Your brain uses visual clues, tone of voice, body language, facial expressions and even clothes to make an instant judgment.

 

The impressions we make are like mental shortcuts, which help us to make rapid judgments about the friendliness, trustworthiness, confidence, or approachability of a person.

 

Just How Quickly Do First Impressions Set?

 

Studies have shown that, within a tenth of a second after seeing someone's face, people have formed a first impression. While they might fluctuate from one year to the next, they can be remarkably consistent.

 

This quick assessment is a life saving process. Thousands of years ago, humans had to make a quick decision as to whether or not a stranger was a threat or safe to approach. The dangers are different today, but our brains continue to function in the same way, making fast decisions.

What is the reason behind the power of first impressions?

 

After forming a first impression, one's brain searches for evidence to back that impression up. This is referred to as confirmation bias. When you believe someone is kind, then you will observe certain behaviors that confirm your beliefs. Don't be swayed by your initial impression if it's bad, you might miss out on their good ones.

 

That's the reason why first impressions often impact:

 

·         Job interviews

·         Business meetings

·         Friendships

·         Dating

·         Classroom interactions

·         Customer service experiences

 

First impressions may not always be correct, but it can help set the tone for what is to come.

If you're a science buff, you'll love this one!This is perfect for the science enthusiast!

 

The human brain takes in a ton of data every second, as psychologists believe. The brain makes decisions easy by recognising patterns to not get overwhelmed.

 

On first meeting, your brain is alerting you to:

 

·         Facial expressions

·         Eye contact

·         Smile

·         Voice tone

·         Posture

·         Clothing

·         Personal grooming

·         Confidence level

 

In a flash these signals come together and form a general impression.

 

Body Language Matters

 

Nonverbal communication plays a large role in communication. Your body language conveys more information than words.

 

The correct body language are:

 

·         Standing straight with a good posture

·         Smiling naturally

·         Eye contact and maintaining eye contact as required.

·         Properly shaking hands (when appropriate)

·         Talking with the eyebrows level, looking at the person.

·         Avoiding crossed arms

 

These actions are effective ways of expressing confidence, openness and friendliness.

 

Body language can be negative, such as:

 

·         When you're constantly checking your phone.When you constantly look at your phone.

·         Avoiding eye contact

·         Slouching

·         Fidgeting excessively

·         Speaking too softly

·         Appearing distracted

 

Negative body language can make a bad first impression, even in the context of positive words.

 

Appearance Influences Perception

 

People always pay attention to one's looks before listening to what one has to say. It doesn't mean that you have to wear fancy clothes but it does mean that you can look clean, neat and proper for the occasion.

 

Some very basic things to do include:

 

·         Wearing clean clothes

·         Maintaining personal hygiene

·         Grooming neatly

·         Dressing appropriately

 

can have a positive impact on others' perceptions.

 

Keep in mind that a person's appearance opens up an opportunity to concentrate on the person, and not on their distractions.

 

You can give us a smile, we can give you a smile today.You can smile and we will smile back.

 

One of the simplest ways to make a good first impression is to have a smile on your face.

 

Smiling will make you look:

 

·         Friendly

·         Trustworthy

·         Confident

·         Approachable

·         Positive

 

However, it's not just you who will benefit from a smile – it can also help to make you feel happier and less stressed in social situations.

 

Speaking Clearly is a self-assurance builder.

 

Your voice tells more than words!

 

The rate of speech may give the impression of being nervous, or the rate of speech may be too slow which will convey the message of being unsure. Instead:

 

Speak at a normal speed.

Use a clear voice.

Be attentive to what I say and give a response.

Avoid interrupting others.

 

Effective communication makes for a lasting good impression.

 

Is it possible to have a negative first impression?

 

Absolutely.

 

There are a lot of people who appear shy initially, but are kind and thoughtful when they are known. Similarly, a man or woman that seems self-assured isn't always reliable.

 

Though first impressions are helpful, don't make an assumption based solely on those.

 

Allowing people to be themselves allows for building up more positive relationships and less miscommunication.

 

Making a good first impression

 

The great thing is that it is not necessary to change you to make a good impression. The little things do add up!

 

Here are some tips that you can use:

 

Smile genuinely.

Make eye contact.

Speak less and listen more.

Dress appropriately.

Be punctual.

Speak confidently.

Demonstrate an interest in others.

Stay positive.

Use polite manners.

Be yourself.

 

Being true to yourself is more memorable than being somebody that you're not!

 

Tina's class is doing a first impressions unit.

 

Online, as well as in real life, first impressions are just as likely as they are today.

 

Others can judge you before you meet before seeing you in person, be it through your social media, e-mail, LinkedIn profile or even your profile picture.

 

To generate a good online reputation:

 

Use a professional looking picture!

Communicate effectively and courteously.

Avoid offensive posts.

Set and update your online profiles.

Be courteous and quickly reply.

 

Having a positive online reputation can lead to career opportunities, networking and making friends.

 

The goal of making a great first impression is important to employers.

 

The first few minutes during a job interview are crucial in making the initial impression.

 

They notice:

 

Confidence

Professional appearance

Communication skills

Enthusiasm

Punctuality

Positive attitude

 

Though qualifications are crucial, a well-put-together candidate will get the employer's attention to the full extent.

 

The quickness and evenness of the game.The speed and fairness of the game.

 

First impressions are a given, but it is important to remember that they don't paint the full picture.

 

We all have our down days, our cultural differences, our challenges personally, or our personalities which may not be apparent up front. Getting to know another person beyond the initial impression makes judgements more accurate, and relationships are better.

 

Knowing our own bias can also help us to be more open-minded and understanding.

 

Final Thoughts

 

The first impression is quite important and can occur within seconds, and it may influence the personal and professional relationships. We make quick judgements, based on looks, gestures, expression and conversation. These first impressions may be useful but don't necessarily tell the whole story.

 

There are really two things to do: try to be your best self with confidence, kindness and authenticity; and also give others a chance to live up to their true character beyond the initial moments. First impressions are key and can make a difference through a smile, respect and interest in others. As they do, it's important to keep in mind that everyone deserves a second chance, which helps to foster better, deeper relationships.