There’s a saying that goes ‘First impressions are the most lasting’. It’s very difficult, if not impossible, to change the first impression you make on a person.
Although this seems unfair, it’s more empowering to take control and figure out how to make a great first impression. The first impression you make impacts your work, your social life, and your business success.
This also affects your success online. If you’ve started a new blog, you’re making first impressions on many people when they visit it. If you’re using an email marketing service to market your brand, the first impression you make is with the headline of your email.
First impressions can have a profound impact on your quality of life. That sounds daunting but it’s not as challenging as it seems. Here are five ways you can make a powerful first impression in any sphere of your life.
1. Show up on time
It’s said that 80% of success is showing up. That percentage increases if you show up on time.
Showing up is about getting out and being at the right place at the right time. It’s about finding opportunities and then putting in the effort to take them. This means you need to consider choices like whether spending more time on social media or staying up late is helpful.
When you show up on time for a business meeting or job interview, you’re establishing positive ideas about who you are. It shows that you respect other people’s time. People will view you as diligent, prepared and thoughtful.
Showing up, and on time, has a great impact on every aspect of your life. It can affect your work life, your social life and the success of your business.
2. Present yourself well
You can make a great first impression by appearing at your best in terms of attire and grooming. It’s important, however, to take context into consideration. For some places, dressing simply is more suitable than a full business suit. Always try to understand the context in place and make yourself appropriately presentable.
You can find plenty of resources online for finding clothes and styles that are flattering. You can also learn about grooming.
Presenting yourself well doesn’t just stop at appearances though. You’re making an impression when you hand over your resume or business plan. Creating good content and formatting it well matters. This is also true if you own a blog, a membership site or any other platform.
3. Go prepared
When you’re prepared for a meeting, it shows. You could be a business person speaking to investors or someone interviewing for a job. Preparation matters in planning a vacation or participating in a social event. When you’re prepared, you make good use of time seeing places and interacting with people.
Being prepared makes things flow more smoothly. You’ll be able to field questions from interviewers and be at ease in social events.
You’ll also be able to make conversation comfortably and make a good impression. When you’ve researched for a job or created a solid business plan, it shows thoughtfulness and real interest. People are more likely to trust you with their business or depend on you at work.
4. Introduce yourself
Read the room you’re in but don’t hesitate to introduce yourself and make small talk. When you introduce yourself you’re showing people that you’re comfortable and in control. This helps you with socialization and makes you appear more confident.
Although this seems daunting, it doesn’t have to be hard or complicated. Practice introducing yourself to people in front of a mirror or ask a friend to work with you. You can also practice in low-stakes situations like applying for a job you’re not very invested in. Try introducing yourself in group settings where it doesn’t matter as much whether you make a great impression or not.
In the world of business, businesses need to ‘introduce’ themselves first all the time when people arrive at their website. They use effective headlines and create a context for their users with written content.
When you introduce yourself well, you can set the mood for the situation you’re in. This will make you feel more comfortable and will help you make a great impression.
5. Use body language
People communicate with more than just words. Body language also makes subconscious impressions on people.
You can use body language signals to your advantage to make an awesome first impression. Avoid closed postures such as crossed arms, legs or feet. They make you appear hostile and closed off.
Instead, face people directly and make eye contact. Relax and smile as you speak. Get comfortable making gestures with your hands to emphasize what you want to say. These signals will go a long way in helping you make a positive first impression.
Impress people and improve your life
Your first impression is often the final impression you make on people. When it comes to high-stakes situations at work, in business and even in your personal life, it can have a life-changing impact.
Your ability to get a job, find a partner or make money online is deeply affected by how people see you the first time you interact.
With some effort and consistency, you’ll be able to make great first impressions. This will help you and your business grow as you get a stamp of approval from people who matter.