It takes just a few seconds for someone to have a few ideas about you. The way you look, dress, or even walk can give different messages to the people around you. And sometimes this may even lead to misunderstandings. But thankfully, you are in control of what other people think of you when they first see you.
First impressions can have lots of benefits if you use them wisely such as with a first date or job interview. So, what should you do to make a good introduction? Well here are ten habits of people who do just that.
How You Dress
Physical appearance is important, especially for first impressions. This is because the people you’ll meet won’t have a clue about you, so your appearance will be the first thing they’ll evaluate to figure out your personality. So make sure your clothing is appropriate for the new environment you enter.
Don’t wear sunglasses
Eye contact has always been important in social interactions, and it’s especially needed if you want to make a good impression. So don’t block your eyes with sunglasses (unless it’s a very bright day!), and look at the person while greeting them. They’ll feel more comfortable and eager to talk with you.
A Firm Hand Shake
Shaking hands is an international way of greeting and definitely polite! So don’t hesitate to extend your hand because it’s a good start to your conversation. And while shaking hands, make sure that it’s firm, but not a death grip.
Be on Your Best Behavior
Good manners are always appreciated, whether it’s with someone you know or a first meeting. And the best things you can do are to pay attention while listening, don’t be waiting for them to stop talking so that you can talk, and make sure to not get distracted with your phone.
Arrive on Time
Nobody likes to be kept waiting, especially if they’re waiting for someone they don’t know. Being late often leads to a bad first impression, so try to arrive 5-10 minutes earlier than the promised time.
Keep a Positive Attitude
Your attitude will say a lot about you in a first impression, and complaining definitely says a ton. So try to make sure to keep the conversation steered in a positive direction. Also, protect your attitude even if you face criticism or a stressful situation, it will show others what kind of person you are under pressure.
Speak with Confidence
Make sure you express yourself clearly and with confidence, it will increase your reliability. However, be careful not to be bossy, since this is a great way to get people to not want to listen to you. Speak with a proper tone of voice and make sure that, if you are giving instruction, to do it in a way that respects the other person.
Be Genuine
Don’t push yourself too much to look cool, you may end up looking fake. Just present yourself as you are and use good manners, eye contact, and great body language. These are all helpful for making a good first impression.
If you’re someone that struggles with understanding how to make a good first impression, then I hope these tips help you out! And if you have any questions, just let me know in the comments down below!
Chasing Foxes was started in 2016 as a way for Grace and her husband, Silas, to start traveling. However, they started to realize that they had a passion for improving themselves, and wanted to help others level up their lives as well. So whether it's with cooking, travel, or staying healthy, they want to help you better your life bit by bit, as they do the same.