The topic of this article may have been regurgitated hundreds, thousands or millions of times since humans became conscious about social interactions, but the truth is that will always bear some importance to how we move through life. Making a good, let alone great, first impression is something that the majority of us aim to do (whether or not we admit it). This can set the tone for our relationships in terms of romance, work and friendships.
Who reading is guilty of judging someone they don’t know just based purely on appearance? They say don’t judge a book by its cover but it can be hard to stick to that idiom, especially when the “real world” demands that we make quick decisions. Below are 5 simple tips to help you make a great first impression.
1) Make eye contact (if in person)
Assuming your first impression is made in a face-to-face situation, always make eye contact with the other person. This will allow both sides to assess each other more clearly and it also conveys sincerity and trust. Would you trust or want to give any attention to a person who struggles to make eye contact with you? In the majority of real-life situations, this would be a deal-breaker.
2) Keep a clean appearance
While it is almost impossible to plan for every first impression, if you form a good habit to keep a clean appearance at all times, this will certainly help if the situation ever arises. Showering daily, ensuring your nails are clean and cut, and clothes freshly laundered will give you a good foundation in making great first impressions. Try spraying on some Hugo Boss deodorant after a shower and wearing a clean shirt to work every day to give yourself a head start!
3) Be punctual
If you are meeting someone for the first time, whether it be a date or job interview, always make the effort to be punctual, even if it isn’t “you”. Honestly, if you aren’t going to be on time, why bother? Being on time shows the other party that you are taking them seriously and that you value their time as much as yours.
4) Show confidence
This also ties in with the first point of making eye contact. Keep your head up, back straight and speak firmly and clearly. By doing these you are showing confidence in yourself and this will certainly rub off on the other party. Just be careful to not go over the top and act cocky. There is a fine line between confidence and cockiness and this line can be the difference between a good first impression, and a bad one.
5) Be positive
People will either remember you as the person who lit up the room or dampened it. Don’t be the latter. Project a positive attitude and more people will likely gravitate towards you and this will certainly leave a lasting impression.