FIRST impressions do count – and it takes less than 30 seconds to form an opinion on someone.
A study of 2,000 adults found 35 per cent think initial thoughts on others matter a lot when it comes to forming social relationships.
While the average first impression is made in just 27 seconds of meeting, a third of those polled make up their mind in under 10 seconds.
A friendly smile (51 per cent), good manners (43 per cent) and eye contact (35 per cent) were revealed as the best ways to make your mark.
Other methods included arriving on time (29 per cent), being conversational (23 per cent) and dressing smartly (15 per cent).
The research identified scenarios people are most keen to impress – with a job interview (68 per cent), a date (52 per cent) and meeting a partner’s parents (38 per cent) the top three.
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Relationship coach, Charlene Douglas, who has partnered with Listerine, which commissioned the research, said: “We form first impressions subconsciously almost every single day.
"What someone’s wearing, how they carry themselves, and how often they smile can play a key part in how we form opinions of people we meet.
"The research shows that a friendly smile can go a long way, so it’s just as important to look after your oral health as well as your attire to ensure you have the confidence to make a lasting sensational first impression."
The study also found people typically feel nervous (40 per cent) and anxious (35 per cent) when meeting others for the first time, but 23 per cent are also calm.
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When meeting someone of importance for the first time 43 per cent try to act welcoming and friendly.
Initial factors adults notice about others are their smile (23 per cent), clothes (17 per cent) and eyes (13 per cent).
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Vice versa, 82 per cent said having a smile on their face makes them feel more confident when meeting someone.
More than three quarters (83 per cent) agreed confidence is central to making a good first impression and 63 per cent believe such opinions last a lifetime.
A good night’s sleep (44 per cent), fresh breath (44 per cent) and wearing new clothes (29 per cent) are among the factors that help them feel more confident when meeting someone new.
Those surveyed through OnePoll think they make a good first impression 45 per cent of the time.
But 35 per cent worry it’s difficult to change perceptions once they’ve been made.
More than half (54 per cent) believe their initial opinions of others typically turn out to be true.
And 68 per cent think they have a good instinct for telling what someone is like.
Charlene Douglas added: “Start the day right and allow yourself enough time to get to important meetings to avoid the stress of making a good first impression and it’s likely to come across without having to even try.”
Charlene Douglas' top tips for making a good first impression
1. Show interest in what your partner is sharing with you by nodding at appropriate times.
This gives your partner that all important cue that you are fully engaged in what they are saying.
Maintaining eye contact and showing engagement cues such as nodding and/or asking questions where appropriate can show that you’re fully engaged in conversation.
Acknowledging your own communication style as well as your partners can help with this.
Understanding what you need to do or say when communicating with others to help you to be fully engaged in a conversation is important.
2. A great smile and laughter go a long way. Some even say that they can be infectious.
It can make you feel connected to a person when you are able to share a smile/laughter together.
Smiling and laughing with someone can help others feel comfortable in your presence and it also helps to showcase your fun personality.
When someone smiles or laughs with you, these powerful non-verbal cues are demonstrative of a confident and open person.
3. Ask questions when appropriate to gain a better understanding of what your partner is saying.
This will help your partner to feel that what they are saying is important and taken seriously.
People want to feel heard when they are communicating with someone.
Ensuring that you are not distracted by notifications on your phone are imperative, to show the recipient that you are fully engaged and interested in what they have to say.
Summarising and reaffirming what you have heard them say is a powerful way to show that they have been heard.
This can ultimately create a better connection between two people.
4. Be punctual.
This demonstrates your integrity and helps your partner to trust that they can rely on you to do what you say.
It can also help to strengthen your belief in a partner’s promise to be there for you, when you need them the most.
5. Be positive.
When you first meet someone, first impressions count.
Be sure to use positive language that shows excitement and enthusiasm where appropriate.
It is important to be authentic in your choice of positive language also.
You may want to share a similar experience that you’ve had to demonstrate that you relate to their story.
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Remember though to allow them the space to share their story, as it’s important that the person feels heard.
A positive and friendly tone helps others to form a good first impression of you.
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