As they say, first impressions are everything. The way that others perceive your look and actions can build a lasting opinion about your character, no matter how true it actually is. In fact, studies have found that this first impression can last up to three months.
Whether you’re working a part-time or full-time job, interning, or still studying, you should be conscious of what your first impression is saying about you so you’re always leaving a positive impact on colleagues, professors, and managers. Here are some of the different things to be mindful of when it comes to your first impression based on how they can affect your career.
- It gives an idea of your professionalism in your interview
Like it or not, a hiring manager’s first snap judgment of you will likely lead them to form an opinion about you that steers the conversation in your first meeting. If they feel that you are capable and competent, then they’re likely to speak with you more in-depth and find more interest in your experience than someone they deem unprofessional. Just think of the old cliché: a firm handshake and maintained eye contact can go a long way in displaying self-confidence and conscientiousness with new coworkers, a boss, or interviewers.
But, it’s not always the way you act that speaks to your character. The way you dress and look can also change someone’s thoughts about you. For example, a woman wearing flashy red high heels to an interview might be seen as less professional than her coworker who’s wearing lower, more sensible shoes, despite her actual work ethic. Similarly, a man visibly suffering from male pattern baldness may be seen as less confident than a man with thick locks, no matter how self-assured he truly is. The moral of the story is that you should be aware of the way your overall look and presence comes across to others so you can make any adjustments necessary for a more professional first impression.
- Sets you apart from others while networking
A positive first impression can be extremely effective in creating a memorable experience with the person you’re meeting. This is highly beneficial when meeting for an interview or at a networking event in order to set yourself apart from other candidates. If recruiters have two similar resumes to evaluate, they’re more likely to choose the one whose owner they remember.
However, you want to be sure you’re remembered for the right reasons. Instead of trying to be the loudest in the room, consider using more toned-down strategies to differentiate yourself during first meetings. A smile and the use of hand gestures through conversation, for example, can help you come across as thoughtful, approachable, and honest, and can help make a personal connection that resonates. These seemingly small characteristics are often actually critically-important to hiring managers and can stand out among the clutter of resumes and forced small talk.
- Leaves a lasting impact with managers
The ability for your first impression to last can be a blessing and a curse, so it’s important that you make a good one, especially with your superiors. Whether it’s good or bad, your manager’s first thoughts about you will likely guide their perspective about your work, interests, and overall personality. It could be the difference between getting a raise or not and can steer their decision about your performance.
Luckily, there are things you can do to control the way you come across to your boss and ensure that your first impression is indicative of what you want them to recognize about you. If you want them to notice your punctuality, be sure you’re early and eager during your first meeting. If you want to prioritize your confidence, consider trying out some power poses during your interview. These small changes to your first interaction can create a lasting impression that can benefit your career down the line.
Your career could depend on the first meeting between you and your coworkers or other professionals in your industry. Make sure you’re being mindful of the type of impression you’re leaving so you start off on the right foot and ultimately influence your career trajectory in the right way.
