Is Your First Impression Your Best Impression?

One one-thousand…two one-thousand…three one-thousand.

Within the three seconds it took you to read the line above, you are evaluated, summed up and judged by someone you don’t know…even if it’s only at a glance.

Like everything else in the 21st century, there is no longer “benefit of the doubt.” Life comes at us fast – and we’re appraised in a matter of seconds, visually and otherwise, from head to toe. In less time than it takes to sneeze, you make an indelible impression, intriguing some and turning off others…and here’s the bad news: Once the first impression is made, it is virtually irreversible.

Because the speed of business is faster than ever before, when it comes to categorizing people, we all take shortcuts, and first impressions become long-term perceptions and reputations in the twinkling of an eye - which is good for people who make positive first impressions but not so good for people who make negative first impressions…or for any of us on a bad hair day.

So what is this “first impression” business about…really? Here’s the truth – first impressions are when people determine the “type” of person you are. It speaks to how strong a brand you are. It’s when bosses and co-workers, alike, decide whether or not they’ll take you seriously.
Yikes! This first impression stuff isn’t for sissies, right?

Here’s how it all works:
• If you appear to be at the same or near the observer’s professional level, you are considered a “possible” for further interaction.
• If you want to appear to be at a higher business or social level, you are admired and people will try to cultivate you into their network.
• If your first impression places you at a lower business/social level, you’ll be kept at an arm’s length – and any contributions will be seriously ignored.

Wait a minute. Nice people don’t make these distinctions, do they?
First of all, “nice” has nothing to do with it. It’s typically human nature to constantly make these appraisals, in business and social environments. Test this hypothesis for yourself. The next time you’re walking down the street, check your reaction to the people you see. After three seconds, the imprint is indelible.

When someone makes the best possible first impression, they’ll have their audience in the palm of their hand. When someone makes a poor first impression, they don’t even get a second look.

Here are 20 tips to help you make a great impression:

1. Keep your attitude positive…no matter what.
2. Dress professionally…and groom yourself meticulously.
3. In every circumstance, show your team spirit…and credit where credit is due.
4. Work at being good with names. No excuses for not remembering.
5. When you need help or don’t know, ask.
6. Take notes…unless you know everything.
7. Take initiative and volunteer whenever and wherever you can.
8. Make an effort to learn about others.
9. Be enthusiastic and energetic.
10. Avoid participation in politics and/or gossip.
11. Keep your personal “stuff” personal. Nobody has room on their plates for your stuff.
12. Network, network, network.
13. Listen more, talk less.
14. Be gracious and appreciative.
15. Be on time – and organized.
16. Find a mentor…and mentor someone.
17. Set goals.
18. Track accomplishments.
19. Make every activity count.
20. Practice humility and stay agile.