A first impression can speak a thousand words! People worry about the first impression they make on potential friends, bosses, neighbors, and coworkers. How important is a first impression really? You might be surprised by these facts that show how to form a positive first impression and examine its impact. Learn how we process these impressions, how long they stick with us, and how they help people shape their opinions of others.
9 First Impression Facts
1. It takes less than 30 seconds to form a first impression. (Source)
Some studies have shown that it takes only one-tenth of a second to form that initial impression. Many people consider a smile the most important part of forming that impression. This might add pressure to these first interactions, but it’s so quick you don’t have to do a thing but be yourself.
2. First impressions are most poignant in our judgments of trustworthiness, physical strength, and intentions to harm. (Source)
Subtle facial and vocal cues create the strongest impressions.
3. First impressions can lead to bias. (Source)
These biases can be positive, like the halo effect, in which positive impressions of people and even brands can influence how we feel about other aspects of them.
4. Vocabulary can influence our first impressions of people. (Source)
58% of Americans say they’ve used complex words to form an impression of intelligence during job interviews. Some people even use their word choice to intimidate others during an argument.
5. Smiling is the most powerful component of a first impression. (Source)
Studies show that smiles are the most memorable feature when meeting someone. Smiles can convey warmth and interest in connecting with others, so they generally leave a favorable impression. Of course, if a person smiles incessantly, it can start to seem inauthentic.
6. 35% of people say it’s difficult to change a first impression. (Source)
An even higher number of people, 54%, believe their first impressions are generally accurate. That indicates that first impressions truly are powerful and important.
7. Sometimes the best way to form a good impression is to be a good listener. (Source)
People enjoy talking about themselves, so if you want to leave them feeling charitably towards you, it pays to listen closely to them. Show your attention by nodding, maintaining eye contact, and acknowledging what they said.
8. Voice can play a role in first impressions too. (Source)
Pitch, pace, and resonance can all influence how we see the confidence, sincerity, and intelligence of others. Superficial factors like clothing choices and grooming also play a large role in how we perceive others.
9. Facial structure can influence how competent we perceive someone to be. (Source)
People with wide faces are perceived as better leaders, while those with mature-looking faces, with larger noses and smaller eyes, are seen as more competent than those with baby faces. We make these judgements subconsciously.
Featured image photo credit: Ketut Subiyanto
