First impressions can be quite important in many different settings, but they’re particularly impactful in the professional world. Whether in job interviews, client meetings, or sales, making a positive first impression can significantly influence your career. Since people often remember the beginnings of things more than what follows, a strong first impression makes you more memorable and unique among the many others they meet.
A first impression is an opinion formed within a minute or two, based largely on assumptions and physical observations. People’s assumptions often dictate or at least influence their behavior, which means a first impression can shape how someone views and treats you for a long time. If your first impression communicates positive traits, it can lead to further positive assumptions about you.
Human beings are built to size each other up quickly, relying on external factors such as facial shape, vocal inflection, attractiveness, and general emotional state. Once people form an initial impression, they tend to get attached to it and find it difficult to change their opinion, even when presented with evidence to the contrary.