The first things Brits notice when meeting new people are their smile (23%) and their eyes (13%), according to a study – with the typical first impression being formed in just 27 seconds.
More than a third of adults (35%) feel that a first impression is key when it comes to forming new social relationships – and the same number worry it is difficult to change those initial perceptions once they have been made.
As a result, the poll of 2,000 people found that four in ten typically feel nervous, and 35% feel anxious, when meeting someone new for the first time.
But nearly a quarter (23%) stay calm – with 82% saying that having a smile on their face makes them feel more confident during an introductory meeting.
Indeed, half of those polled (51%) feel a friendly smile is the best way to make your mark – followed by good manners (43%), and eye contact (35%).
Other methods included arriving on time (29%), being conversational (23%), and dressing smartly (15%).
The research also identified scenarios in which people are most keen to impress – with a job interview (68%), a date (52%), and meeting a partner’s parents (38%), named as the top three.
Relationship coach, Charlene Douglas, who has partnered with Listerine, which commissioned the research, said: “We form first impressions subconsciously almost every single day.
“What someone’s wearing, how they carry themselves, and how often they smile, can play a key part in how we form opinions of people we meet.
“The research shows that a friendly smile can go a long way – so it’s just as important to look after your oral health, as well as your attire, to ensure you have the confidence to make a lasting sensational first impression.”
The study also found that, when meeting someone of importance for the first time, 43% try to act welcoming and friendly.
More than three-quarters (83%) agreed confidence is central to making a good first impression, and 63% believe such opinions last a lifetime.
A good night’s sleep (44%), fresh breath (44%), and wearing new clothes (29%) are among the factors that help them feel more confident when meeting someone new.
And those surveyed, via OnePoll, think they make a good first impression 45% of the time.
More than two-thirds (68%) feel they have a good instinct for telling what someone is like, with a third making up their mind in under 10 seconds – and 54% believe their initial opinions of others typically turn out to be true.
Charlene Douglas added: “Start the day right and allow yourself enough time to get to important meetings, to avoid the stress of making a good first impression, and it’s likely to come across without having to even try.”
CHARLENE DOUGLAS' TOP TIPS FOR MAKING A GOOD FIRST IMPRESSION:
- Show interest in what your partner is sharing with you by nodding at appropriate times. This gives your partner that all-important cue that you are fully engaged in what they are saying. Maintaining eye contact, and showing engagement cues such as nodding and/or asking questions where appropriate, can show that you’re fully engaged in conversation. Acknowledging your own communication style, as well as your partner's, can help with this. Understanding what you need to do or say when communicating with others, to help you to be fully engaged in a conversation, is important.
- A great smile and laughter go a long way. Some even say that they can be infectious. It can make you feel connected to a person when you are able to share a smile/laughter together. Smiling and laughing with someone can help others feel comfortable in your presence, and it also helps to showcase your fun personality. When someone smiles or laughs with you, these powerful non-verbal cues are demonstrative of a confident and open person.
- Ask questions when appropriate to gain a better understanding of what your partner is saying. This will help your partner to feel that what they are saying is important and taken seriously. People want to feel heard when they are communicating with someone. Ensuring that you are not distracted by notifications on your phone is imperative, to show the recipient that you are fully engaged and interested in what they have to say. Summarising and reaffirming what you have heard them say is a powerful way to show that they have been heard. This can ultimately create a better connection between two people.
- Be punctual. This demonstrates your integrity, and helps your partner to trust that they can rely on you to do what you say. It can also help to strengthen your belief in a partner’s promise to be there for you, when you need them the most.
- Be positive. When you first meet someone, first impressions count. Be sure to use positive language that shows excitement and enthusiasm where appropriate. It is also important to be authentic in your choice of positive language. You may want to share a similar experience that you’ve had, to demonstrate that you relate to their story. Remember, though, to allow them the space to share their story, as it’s important that the person feels heard. A positive and friendly tone helps others to form a good first impression of you.
