Tips on how to make a lasting first impression

Tips on how to make a lasting first impression

"It is only shallow people who do not judge by appearances" ~Oscar Wilde

The first impression is what others perceive or think of you as soon as they first see you. The first impression matters; it is part of human nature to judge a book by its cover. So, what can you do to leave a good and lasting first impression? Here are a few tips:
 1. Be punctual: Be on time, always. Let the other person or other party know if you will be running late. Making others wait is considered rude, and it leaves a bad first impression!

2. Appearance and Dress code: Dress the way you want to present yourself for a given occasion. Your appearance - head to toe - matters. It includes the dress, the hair, the body-language.

3. Introduce yourself: Introduce yourself first, shake hand warmly. A hug is okay if you are sure that the other person won't mind, or if it is a part of the culture or tradition.

4. Be confident, but calm: Don't be nervous. Stay calm and collected, but carry yourself with confidence. he idea is not to come across as over-confident or trying too hard.

5. Humor- the right amount: Humor is good; it keeps the mood and conversation amicable and light. But don't overdo it; you don't want to give an impression of a class-clown.

6. Smile: Yes, smile. A sincere smile can light-up a room, and the conversation. Include a sincere smile in your first impression.

7. Eye contact: Make eye-contact while talking or listening. Eye-contact is an important part of the communication, and leaves good impression on the other person.

8. Be sincere: Be yourself. Don't try to be someone else. Faking last only for a while. Leave a first impression that you can live with - day after day.

9. Listen up: Good listening is very important for leaving a genuine impression. Here are some ideas on how to improve your listening skills.

10. Know your company: Know your company and be sincere. It is okay to ask their names again, especially in a bigger group. Use first names to address your company.

11. Small talk: Small talk is very important to carry the conversation smoothly, and in creating a good impression.

12. Center of attention -Not: You don't have to be the center of attention to make a good first impression. Avoid overtaking everything and every conversation.

13. Express yourself: Be expressive. Be a part of the conversation and share your point of view. Don't be over-reserved or too quiet.

14. Feedback: Pay attention to the direct or indirect feedback, how you are being received by others. You can tell this even by the subtle feedback. Based on this feedback, decide if you should step-up or slow down.

15. Don't try too hard: For all the above tips, don't be over conscious and don't try too hard. Go with the flow and don't over-do it. he first impression is important. ry to leave an impression that represents true you. A genuine and realistic first impression goes a long way in building lasting relationships in personal and professional social circles.