Everyone, especially when meeting someone new, is prone to making snap judgments.

According to a 2006 study published in Psychological Science. Our brain processes information about a person’s face in less than one-tenth of a second. Leading to quick conclusions about a new acquaintance’s qualities such as trustworthiness, competency, friendliness, honesty, and morality.

According to Vivian Zayas, a professor of psychology at Cornell University, this tendency dates back to evolutionary times. When we encounter strangers and need to assess whether they would harm or be an ally for survival.

Most of us believe the first impressions we come up with, too, says Alexander Todorov, a professor of psychology at Princeton University and author of Face Value: The Irresistible Influence of First Impressions. And although sometimes they can be misleading, first impressions do form people’s view of a person.

“Once we’ve formed a representation, it’s used as a filter for how we act towards them,”. Do you believe someone is trustworthy right away? You could give them more information. You might complain about them to co-workers if you dismiss them as a negative person.

From job interviews to sales calls, the adage “you only get one chance to make a first impression” holds true in many situations.

Do you want to make everyone you meet feel more at ease right away? Do you want to make everyone you meet feel valued and respected right away? In a nutshell, do you want to make a good first impression?

How can you ensure that you get off to a good start in any of these situations? What exactly should you say? What’s the most effective way to follow up?

There are, fortunately, ways to make a lasting impression.

Here’s how to ensure that others see you in a favorable light and make a killer first impression.
Match the Environment.
It’s crucial to think about where you’re trying to make a good first impression, whether it’s a formal job interview or a dinner date.

The reason for this is simple: context is important. It gives you cues on how to dress, look, and act. If you’re interviewing at a bank, for example, you’ll almost certainly be required to wear a suit.

Making a good impression requires selecting attire, grooming habits, and conversation styles that are appropriate for the environment you are entering.

Watch your mood.
If you’re having a good day, you’ll most likely appear happy, and people will be more likely to form a favorable impression of you. On the other hand, if you’re having a bad day, you might appear distant.

We sort of scan the world for threats, and facial expressions are really the first thing that gets processed. If someone is frowning or appears to be threatening, we register that as ‘Watch out.’

A positive mood is open, curious, and enthusiastic. A bad mood appears bored, rude, or hostile.

You can develop a positive attitude by smiling at someone, maintaining eye contact long enough to notice the color of their eyes, or sitting without crossing your arms or legs. This will give off a welcoming, open, and upbeat vibe.

If you’re having trouble changing your mood, think back to a time when you were enthusiastic or resourceful.

If you’re nervous, make a silly joke to yourself before entering a room. This will make your attitude and expression change almost instantly.

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