A first impression is a person's perception of a person or thing after they have seen or heard them. It is a feeling that a person gets when they encounter or interact with another individual. Aside from their appearance, other factors such as mannerisms, body language, and manners also contribute to a person's first impression.
A strong first impression can help a person develop a lasting relationship with a potential customer and make sales. It can also influence a person's decision to purchase. According to studies, non-verbal cues such as body language and gestures can have a more powerful impact than words.
The first impression is very important to a person's perception of a person and a brand. It sets expectations and helps people make a decision. The last impression is what people will remember about the brand. Getting the right first impression is very important to ensure that a person's expectations are met.
NOTE: I’ve always believed that creating a strong impression isn’t just a one-time thing—it’s the gateway to lasting connections. In this article on making a lasting impression, I dive into what it really takes to stick in people’s minds, from subtle cues to intentional follow-ups. If you’re looking to leave a mark that resonates long after the conversation, give it a read.
The last impression
is what people will remember about the brand. It can be as simple as saying
"Good bye" or "Have a nice day." It can be as significant
as someone going above and beyond in demonstrating their expertise or raising
the customer's confidence.
Even before you open your mouth, people can develop their first impression of you based on your appearance. According to studies, people's first impressions of a person are influenced by their behavior and how they present themselves.
Your first impression can either make or break an opportunity. Although it's normal to make an assessment of someone when you first meet them, people can quickly develop their own opinion about you in just a couple of seconds.
According to Arthur Dobrin, a scientist who studies first impressions, the importance of having a strong first impression can be attributed to the "pinch effect." This is because people tend to remember the first thing they encounter even if it's not the first thing they've seen or heard. Dobrin explained that the human brain's first impression system is designed to determine how people are perceived and how they are responded to.
In a series of experiments conducted by Princeton psychologists Alexander Todorov and Janine Willis, they discovered that people's first impression of a stranger can be formed in just a tenth of a second. They also stated that long exposure doesn't affect these impressions.
The researchers noted that the first impression is formed in around 7 to 17 seconds following a meeting. Around 55% of a person's first impression is based on their appearance, while 26% are influenced by their mannerisms and actions. According to a study conducted by researchers, people are more likely to form 11 impressions of a person after 7 seconds. This is known as the "7/11 rule."
Although a first impression can be lasting, it takes a long time to change it if it's not great. According to experts, it usually takes around five to 15 seconds for people to form an impression of a person. Your first impression is about likability and it's the gateway to developing an emotional connection with your potential customers. Having a strong likability can help you build a strong relationship with your potential customers.
A competent, trustworthy, and friendly first impression can help people feel comfortable around you, which is why they're more likely to open up to you and become friends. Also, people who meet you are more likely to recommend you to their colleagues and friends.
A study conducted by Princeton University revealed that people are more likely to make favorable and unfavorable assessments of a person after just a fraction of a second following a meeting. Even if there is conflicting evidence, we still rely on our own impressions.
A professional appearance and attitude are two of the most important factors that people consider when making a first impression. They can be distinguished by how honest and trustworthy you are, how appropriate your language is, and how caring you are.
One of the most important factors that people consider when making a first impression is being able to build a strong rapport with new people. Having a positive first impression can help people feel like they're getting the best possible service. A strong first impression can help you build a strong relationship with potential customers and make sales. Your attitude, personal presentation, and behavior can influence a person's decision to buy.
According to experts, three factors are needed to make a strong first impression. This idea was first presented in an article published in 1972. It was written by Herbert Krugman, a renowned advertising researcher (check also Reference 1, Reference 2 and Reference 3).
Make sure to dress
appropriately for the occasion and greet people in a way that fits their
situation. When you meet someone, make eye contact and smile as you do so.
Being positive and upbeat can go a long way to making a first impression. It can help people feel like they're being taken care of and will allow them to feel valued and included in your company. According to a survey conducted by Philips Sonicare, the most important feature that people consider when making a first impression is your smile.
In real life, the cover of a person's image can also be used to misrepresent their actual attributes. For instance, if a person's clothes and behavior are not ideal, they might not be able to convince people that they are genuinely interested in them.
Nalini Ambady, a psychologist at Tufts University, says that people should never assume that their first impression is always trustworthy. Instead, she advises people to be wary of what they see. Despite the belief that first impressions do not matter, it is still important to remember that they can still make a big impact on a person's perception of a person.
Useful Reading:
1. This article First Impression is Last Impression explores the profound impact of first impressions in personal and professional settings, particularly in the Malaysian context. It delves into practical tips such as dressing appropriately, mastering body language, being punctual, and maintaining a positive attitude to leave a memorable impression. Highlighting relatable anecdotes and actionable advice, the piece underscores how small details can create lasting perceptions, urging readers to approach first encounters with intention and care.
2. What Factors Are Involved in Creating a First Impression explores the essential elements that contribute to making a strong first impression, particularly in the Malaysian context. It discusses factors like appearance, emphasizing appropriate attire and grooming; body language, including posture and eye contact; communication skills, focusing on active listening and clear speech; punctuality, highlighting the importance of being on time; and attitude, stressing positivity and enthusiasm. Through relatable anecdotes and practical tips, the article underscores how these components collectively influence others' perceptions and offers guidance on how to leave a lasting, positive impression in various social and professional settings.
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