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Making a good first impression is one of those underrated life skills that can significantly impact your personal and professional success.
You rarely get a second chance to make a good impression.
Those first few minutes matter, whether you're walking into a job interview, meeting a new client, or simply introducing yourself to a new person at a social event. Those initial moments can shape how others see you and influence your relationship.
Humans are naturally wired to make quick judgments. Studies show that it takes just a fraction of a second for someone to form an impression based on your appearance, body language, and tone of voice.
These rapid assessments are often unconscious and stem from our evolutionary past when our ancestors had to quickly decide whether a stranger was a threat or an ally to survive.
Although society has evolved, this instinct remains deeply ingrained. First impressions still carry significant weight and can shape how others perceive us in the long term.
Psychologists have found that once an impression is formed, people tend to seek out information that confirms their initial judgment, while ignoring evidence to the contrary—a phenomenon known as confirmation bias. This makes it challenging to change someone’s opinion once it’s been set.
That’s why making a strong first impression is so important. Your initial presentation can set the tone for future interactions, whether in social or professional settings.
Research indicates that hiring decisions are often influenced within the first few minutes of job interviews, making your handshake, posture, and opening remarks crucial.
Likewise, in social situations, leaving a positive first impression can lead to meaningful and lasting personal or romantic relationships.
So, how do you make a good first impression that truly sticks? This article will discuss tips, insights, and strategies—everything from body language to dressing the part—to help you nail those crucial first interactions.
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A first impression is your initial opinion about someone when you meet them, often within just a minute or two. Because it's mainly based on assumptions and visual cues, your first impression can vary from person to person depending on how they interpret what they see. Making a good first impression means that most people initially perceive you positively.
For example, if you dress in business casual while the rest of the office maintains strictly formal attire, you might appear more approachable. Over the day, clients might listen to you while being standoffish with your colleagues. And this is the point of making a good impression in the first place.
👉Related: Mastering Impression Management: Tips for Effective Self-Presentation
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There’s a reason people say “first impressions last.” Studies show that people form opinions about others within a tenth of a second.
Once someone decides, it can be tough to change it. That’s why learning how to make a good first impression is one of the best bets to improve relationships. This simple advice can land a new job or boost your confidence.
A great first impression can:
And here's some advice: you don’t have to be a natural extrovert to make a good first impression. With practice, basic research, and simple tweaks, you can train yourself to shine during any first encounter.
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Want to know a secret? Preparing in advance is the best way to appear confident and charismatic in a meeting.
That might mean:
Preparation shows that you care. It also reduces anxiety and helps you exude confidence, especially in a job interview or your first day at a new job.
Being even just five minutes early to a meeting shows that you're punctual and respectful of others' time. This is a small gesture that makes a strong first impression.
Your appearance is one of the first things people notice, so it's crucial to dress appropriately.
Here are a few pointers:
Wearing clothes that fit well and reflect the tone of the meeting can make a good impression before you even say a word.
Your body language often speaks louder than your words. It can either reinforce your message or completely undermine it.
Some essential non-verbal tips:
Research has shown that people are naturally drawn to others who appear relaxed and confident. Paying attention to these subtle cues can instantly improve how others perceive you.
Two of the easiest ways to connect with someone? Make eye contact and smile. These two simple gestures can go a long way in making you seem friendly, trustworthy, and open. This is a fact backed up by extensive research.
When you maintain eye contact, you show that you're genuinely interested in the conversation. Combine that with a genuine smile, and you're setting the stage for a positive interaction.
Just be mindful of overdoing it — staring too intensely or grinning non-stop can feel unnatural. Keep it light, relaxed, and real.
Don’t underestimate the power of small talk. It helps break the ice and allows you to find common ground with the other person.
Ask insightful questions like:
These questions show genuine curiosity and help you build a connection faster than just talking about the weather. Plus, they relieve some pressure from having to do all the talking.
Listening is one of the most overlooked ways to make a good first impression. People appreciate feeling heard and understood.
Here are a few ways to be a better listener:
Being a good listener also helps you respond more thoughtfully, keeping the conversation flowing smoothly.
Let’s talk about confidence. It’s one of the most significant factors in creating a good first impression. But there’s a fine line between confidence and arrogance.
True confidence is about being comfortable with yourself, not showing off. You can exude confidence through calm speech, explicit opinions, and open body language.
And remember: being humble, showing vulnerability, or even admitting when you don’t know something can also demonstrate confidence.
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When starting a new job, your first few days are prime time for making a solid first impression at work.
A few tips to stand out:
Being friendly, curious, and respectful from the start helps you build a positive reputation with your colleagues, which can set the tone for long-term success.
👉 Related: 17 Smart Questions to Ask Your New Boss
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Feeling anxious when meeting someone for the first time is normal, especially in high-pressure situations like a job interview or a networking event.
Here’s how to handle it:
These techniques become second nature with practice, making it easier to make a good first impression even when nervous.
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The impression you make doesn’t stop once the meeting ends.
To reinforce that great first impression, always follow up:
This simple gesture can help cement you in the other person’s mind as thoughtful, attentive, and genuinely interested — precisely the kind of person people want to work with.
A follow-up signals that you are dependable and genuinely interested. It shows that your initial good impression wasn’t just for show, but is backed by consistent, thoughtful action.
Staying in touch after your first meeting helps turn a fleeting connection into a lasting professional, social, or personal relationship. It keeps you top-of-mind and opens the door to deeper engagement.
Prompt and polite follow-ups reflect your professionalism. They respect the other person’s time and reinforce your commitment to any discussions or promises made.
Many opportunities are lost simply because people don’t follow up. Whether it’s a job interview, a sales pitch, or a networking event, following up can be the difference between being remembered and forgotten.
Follow-ups help clarify any points discussed, confirm agreements, and set the stage for future actions. They ensure both parties are on the same page and reduce misunderstandings.
A quick thank-you note or message after a meeting or introduction shows gratitude and good manners. It leaves a positive, lasting impression.
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Knowing how to make a good first impression is a life skill that pays off in every area — from landing a job to networking to building lasting friendships.
If you remember nothing else, remember this:
The more you do it, the more natural it becomes. Every time you walk into a meeting or introduce yourself to a new person, you can create something great. So next time you find yourself in a room full of strangers or sitting across from a potential employer, take a deep breath, put your shoulders back, and make that good first impression count.
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At Highrise, we specialize in teaching you how to create unforgettable first impressions that open doors to new opportunities, build lasting relationships, and boost your confidence.
Whether you’re preparing for a job interview, networking event, or client meeting, our expert coaching will guide you through every detail, from body language and tone to professional appearance and communication skills. Our personalized approach helps you understand how others perceive you and equips you with practical strategies to present your best self authentically and confidently.
Our proven methods have helped countless professionals land dream jobs, secure clients, and elevate their leadership presence.
Take the first step toward standing out in any room and making every interaction count. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and start your journey to making powerful, positive, and lasting first impressions that propel your career and relationships forward.
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