The Importance of a First Impression

Rachael Primeau
September 07, 2023
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When you make a good first impression, you are more likely to be seen as competent, reliable, and professional.

Why First Impressions Are Important

Creates a lasting impression

People form impressions of others within seconds of meeting them and these first impressions are long lasting, which can shape how others perceive you for a significant period.

Credibility and Trust

When you make a good first impression, you are more likely to be seen as competent, reliable, and professional.

Professional Relationships

Having a great first impression helps in establishing professional relationships as people are more inclined to engage with someone, they find likeable, credible, and trustworthy from the beginning.

9 Tips for Making an Excellent First Impression

Be Punctual

Arrive early.

Dress Appropriately

Dress for the occasion.

If it's an interview, dress business, or businesss casual.
Always better to be overdressed than underdressed.

Make Eye Contact

Use eye contact when speaking.

If you don’t use eye, contact it could make you look unsure and not confident in yourself.

Smile

Smiling makes you look approachable and friendly.

Be Authentic

Just be yourself.
People want to know the real you, not a fake version.

Use Positive Body Language

Sit or stand straight as it makes you look more confident.

Observe Proper Interview Etiquette

If the interview is in person, make sure to shake hands with the interviewer.

If the interview is online, make sure the person is done speaking before talking.
Make sure to come with questions to ask for the end of the interview as you are also interviewing the company to see if you want to work there, and it leaves a good lasting impression at the end of the interview.