(310) 982-4828

How to Make a Good First Impression with Anybody

The results are in- you only have 7 seconds before someone has already made their initial impression of you. With such a short amount of time, your approach within those initial couple of seconds is crucial. Especially since first impressions are lasting and difficult to change. To help you make the most of it, here are 5 tips on how to make a good first impression with anybody that you meet.

Do Your Research

When first impressions are lasting, it is important to get a head start. Fortunately, in today’s digital world it isn’t hard to do. Do your research on how to make a good first impression by checking out social media. This can give you significant insights into what is important to them, what they value, and possible topics to avoid discussing altogether. The extra 15 minutes it will take will be well worth it in order to make a great first impression.

Be on Time

The last thing you want to do when learning how to make a good first impression is to have them make up their minds about you before they even meet you. Being on time communicates professionalism and that you value their time as much as they do. Whether you are going in for an interview, attending a networking event, or meeting the in-laws for the first time, arriving on time is of the utmost importance.

Smile

When researching how to make a good first impression, this one may be the most important. Did you know that a recent study found that 48% of adults think a smile is the most memorable feature when they meet someone for the first time? Flashing a smile makes you seem approachable, friendly, and trustworthy, which are all things you want to communicate upon meeting someone new for the first time. If you have been refraining from smiling because you feel a little insecure about your teeth, then opt for a teeth-whitening treatment to boost your self-esteem back up. As a top periodontist in Beverly Hills, Dr. Justin Raanan specializes in creating smiles and confidence. Schedule your appointment with Justin Raanan today.

Dress to Impress

A great rule of thumb is to dress 50% better than the occasion you are attending. Dressing “up” for the initial meeting will communicate that you take good care of yourself, that you value the meeting, and that you understand the social norms surrounding first impressions. Think of dressing to impress as marketing yourself to the person you are meeting. Plus, dressing nicely will boost your confidence and help you make the absolute best impression possible.

Listen More Than You Talk

The last thing you want is for your new contact to leave thinking you are self-absorbed. Instead of spending the first meeting talking all about yourself, make sure to shift the spotlight onto them as well. Ask them telling questions and make sure you genuinely listen to the answer. This is the foundation of building rapport, which is key if you are looking for how to make a good first impression.

Be Attentive

Being attentive to the person you just met is a must. If you are distracted checking your phone constantly, neglecting eye contact, and paying more attention to your surroundings then them, you are not going to make a great first impression. Instead, make eye contact, communicate in a way that lets them know you are paying attention, and avoid checking your phone unless it is an emergency.

With so little time to influence a very lasting first impression, utilizing the time that you do have is so important. Capitalize on that time by making an effort to do your research, be on time, smile, dress to impress, listen more than you talk, and be attentive. For more information on perfecting your smile for that crucial first impression, contact Justin Raanan today.

Scroll to Top