You only get one shot at a first impression—and let’s face it, people decide how they feel about you fast. Really fast. According to Princeton psychologists Janine Willis and Alexander Todorov, it takes just a tenth of a second to form an impression of a stranger’s face.
That’s faster than you can say “Nice to meet you.”
Whether you’re walking into a job interview, pitching to a client, or showing up on a first date, your first impression can either open doors or slam them shut. The way you carry yourself, what you say, how you look—it all adds up. Once people form an opinion, changing it is like trying to rebrand a negative Yelp review. Not impossible, but definitely uphill. If you’re wondering how to make a good first impression, stay tuned. I’m going to break it down step by step, and trust me, this approach works in real life.
Dress Appropriately
Let’s get the most obvious piece out of the way: what you wear matters.
Not because fashion is shallow, but because clothing communicates. A sharp outfit signals respect for the moment and the person you’re meeting. You don’t wear board shorts to a boardroom, right? It’s not about being trendy—it’s about being thoughtful.
The key here is context. If you’re heading into a tech startup interview, a clean hoodie and jeans might pass. But walk into a law firm with the same look, and you’ll raise eyebrows. Dressing appropriately means you’ve done your homework and respect the environment.
In short? People see your outfit before they hear your voice. Make it count.
Be Aware of Your Body Language
Body language often speaks louder than words.
When you walk into a room slouched, avoiding eye contact, and with your hands stuffed in your pockets, you’re signaling insecurity—even if your words are confident. Harvard researcher Amy Cuddy found that power poses can influence how confident you feel and how others perceive you—such as standing tall with an open posture. That’s a win.
Eye contact is another biggie. Don’t stare people down, but don’t look at your shoes either. Holding someone’s gaze for a few seconds, then naturally looking away, helps you seem engaged, honest, and present.
And let’s not forget the handshake—or whatever the latest equivalent is in your culture. A firm, friendly handshake (or fist bump, if you’re in startup land) goes a long way in establishing credibility.
Show Interest in Others
Here’s the secret sauce no one talks about: people remember how you made them feel.
One of the best ways to make a killer first impression is to show genuine curiosity about the other person. Ask questions. Listen—really listen—not just to respond, but to understand.
Think about someone who made you feel seen. They didn’t dominate the conversation or talk about themselves for 20 minutes. They asked, “What do you do?” and then followed it up with, “What got you into that line of work?”
Being interested makes you interesting. It’s a paradox that’s 100% true.
Watch Your Expressions
Your facial expressions are a direct reflection of your emotional state—even when you’re trying to fake it. If you’re nervous and trying to mask it, a forced smile or overly raised eyebrows can betray you. On the flip side, if you’re cold or distracted, a blank expression can read as rude.
The trick is to match your expressions with the tone of the conversation. When someone shares good news, light up with them. If they’re serious, lean in and soften your face.
One underestimated tip? Smile. But make it real. People can spot a fake smile faster than a pop quiz on Monday morning.
Consider Your Words
You don’t need to sound like a TED speaker, but your words matter.
Avoid fillers like “um,” “like,” or “you know,” especially in professional settings. They signal hesitation and can make you appear unsure. Instead, speak clearly, pause when needed, and keep your message tight.
An excellent first impression also means avoiding anything too negative or self-deprecating. If your first comment is about how awful the traffic was or how tired you are, you’ve just shifted the energy down. Instead, focus on positivity and shared excitement.
Want a power move? Compliment something authentic. It could be as simple as, “I really appreciate how organized this event is.” Just don’t fake it—people can smell flattery from a mile away.
Build Rapport Quickly
You don’t need to have a deep conversation to connect.
Rapport is that instant vibe that says, “Hey, we get each other.” It starts with mirroring—subtly matching the other person’s energy, tone, or gestures. If they’re laid back, ease up. If they’re enthusiastic, lean into it.
Small talk isn’t small. Asking how someone’s weekend was or what they think of the venue can warm things up fast. Humor, when used tastefully, can be a shortcut to connection as well. A quick, lighthearted comment can turn an awkward intro into a memorable moment.
Even a shared laugh over something minor can build enough momentum to carry the whole interaction forward.
Be Proactive
Confidence loves preparation.
If you walk into a meeting or social setting knowing what you want to say, who you’re speaking with, and what outcome you’re aiming for, you’re already ahead. Proactive people don’t wait for the other person to make the first move—they extend a hand, start the conversation, or offer help.
This doesn’t mean steamrolling the room with your presence. It means being intentional.
Want to leave a mark? Bring something to the table. A helpful insight. A relevant question. A solid introduction. Your initiative shows leadership, and that’s memorable.
Consider the Impact of Your Language
Your choice of words shapes the mood and meaning of every interaction.
Let’s say you’re asked how things are going. Responding with “Same old grind” feels tired. Try instead, “Busy, but I’m learning a ton.” It’s still real—but more positive and forward-facing.
Tone also matters. Saying “I guess I could do that” sounds reluctant. Saying “I’d be happy to help” sounds generous and confident. Same offer, different impact.
Words can build bridges or put up walls. Be the kind of communicator who chooses clarity, kindness, and confidence—especially in those first moments.
Maintain Some Perspective
Look, not every interaction will be flawless.
Sometimes you fumble a word. You could trip over your own feet or say something awkward. It happens. What matters more than perfection is authenticity. People forgive minor missteps if they sense you’re real and grounded.
Keeping perspective helps you stay relaxed. You’re not auditioning for a Broadway play—you’re building a connection. Focus on being present, not perfect.
Even if you think you messed up, chances are the other person didn’t notice or already moved on.
Conclusion
So, how to make a good first impression?
It’s part preparation, part presence, and part mindset. It’s about showing up as your best self—but not a fake version. Think of it like setting the tone for the rest of your relationship with that person.
Dress the part. Speak clearly. Be curious. Smile like you mean it. And if all else fails? Just treat people with genuine respect. That never goes out of style.
The first impression isn’t the whole story—but it’s the beginning. And beginnings matter.
FAQs
1. How long does it take to make a first impression?
Research says it takes as little as 0.1 seconds for someone to form a first impression based on your face alone.
2. Can you recover from a bad first impression?
Yes, but it takes time and consistent positive behavior. Recovery is possible, but prevention is easier.
3. What are the most common mistakes people make?
Poor eye contact, negative body language, lack of preparation, or excessive self-focus can damage first impressions.
4. Is appearance really that important?
While it’s not everything, appearance heavily influences first impressions. It signals effort, confidence, and respect.
5. How can introverts make a strong first impression?
Introverts can prepare in advance, use thoughtful questions, and focus on one-on-one interactions to shine authentically.
