CAMMIE BAGLEY
Living/Athens Editor
Whether one is going on a first date, a job interview, a meeting or even just greeting a stranger, first impressions determine how one person will view another and are difficult to undo.
According to mindtools.com, “It takes just a quick glance, maybe three seconds, for someone to evaluate you when you meet for the first time. In this short time, the other person forms an opinion about you based on your appearance, your body language, your demeanor, your mannerisms and how you are dressed.”
If one wants to be respected and taken seriously, there are some things to keep in mind when encountering anyone for the first time. To begin with, one must remember to be on time. In some instances, this rule wouldn’t apply, but if going on a job interview, a date or any type of business ordeal, this is a very important aspect of making a good first impression. Being timely shows that the person is proactive and responsible, which are both qualities that help gain respect from others. It also shows that the person is considerate of the other person’s time, which is a plus when trying to impress anyone.
Another thing to remember when attempting to make a good first impression is to present one’s self appropriately when it comes to appearance. Every situation has a suitable code of dress, so one must keep that in mind while deciding what to wear when meeting anyone for the first time. If one is going to their first day on a new job, they should be sure to dress professionally according to their workplace’s dress code. However, when being set up on a blind date, it wouldn’t be appropriate to dress in office wear. The important thing to remember is to wear what is appropriate for the specific occasion. Dress code isn’t the only part of one’s appearance though, so one must also be aware of the way he or she is presented aside from just their wardrobe. Some things to keep in mind are to have kempt hair, to make sure one has showered, brushed one’s teeth and to never wear an excessive amount of cologne or perfume. When one looks messy, others will assume that they are messy, and that could be a turn off to people in many situations.
Positivity is something that is also a good way to give a great first impression. Having a positive attitude can go a long way, and when one shows that he or she is an upbeat and happy person, people whom the person has never met before will want to be around him or her more often. Positivity is also something that can radiate off onto others, so if someone was going on a job interview and the potential employer seemed to be in a bad mood, the interviewee’s positive attitude could rub off onto the boss and potentially give them a better chance at getting the job.
Regardless of the situation, always remember that when first encounters are made, people judge others based on appearance, attitude, what one says and even one’s demeanor. If one is seeking to gain another’s respect, then it’s important to consider all of these things. But, above all, however one decides to present oneself for the first time should keep in mind that a first impression can’t be redone. When one is seeking to be respected by another, they should decide what’s the most appropriate way to present their self in order to gain that approval and be able to do it in a short amount of time.
