What Has the Greatest Impact in Making a First Impression?

First impression is very important. When you meet with somebody for the first time it is almost vital to look at your best. People judge from what they see, and that is your clothes, how it matches with your accessories and hairstyle, the language of your body – posture, gestures and movements as well as your facial expressions. These all can tell about you much more than words. Non verbal communication makes an impression on more than 90%, while words influence the conversation with just near 10%.

What are the things people should pay their attention on to leave a good first impression?

Some people mistakenly think if they wear the latest fashionable outfit, they have done it all. That is an absolute nonsense. Fashion has a tendency to be outdated very quickly and often such a must have in one season would be an absolute nothing the next one. So does it really make a sense to run after the latest novelties?

No.

While dressing nicely and neatly is important, there is something that plays even bigger part in making positive impression on people. What your body language says of who you are and what kind of communication skills you obtain, how good you are in making people feel comfortable around you, whether you are trustworthy and reliable, funny and easygoing etc.

Does it really matter what you wear if people are bored and feel “cold” reception from you? No.

You can make people feel welcomed to your company even before you start talking. The language of your body would speak for you. The subconscious mind of the person read your body expressions instantly from the first moment they see you. It is in your power to use your effective communication skills to attract them to you. Always use positive, open body language, make eye contact, smile and laugh, respect personal space of the other person.

You can use your communication skills to influence people as well, and not just to make impression and read body signals of others. If they are too shy or too aggressive you can make them more friendly communicative. It just make sense to practice some nonverbal communication skills.

Words take some attention a bit later.

Others will like you if you are smiley and funny person. If you are interested in them and make them feel special, they will act the same way in return. Both of you will end up having a pleasant chat.

How to do that?

Pay more attention to them, not you. Everyone like to talk about themselves. Give them a chance to shine. Ask open questions and listen what they say. There can be really a lot of information to learn.

Yes the biggest secret is so simple – listen to people and emphasise your attentiveness with appropriate body language. People will remember you in a positive way and more than likely will seek another chance to meet with you.

Put into practice those simple tips and it will not be too long before you notice good changes.