First Impressions are like a movie trailer but for you. Whether you’re heading out for a first date, a job interview, or making your debut at a conference, how you present yourself initially carries significant weight. People often say, “I’m quite interesting once you get to know me,” and, honestly, most times it’s valid. However, in the world of business and networking, second chances can be rare.

Let me share a personal story because life is all about experiences, whether they’re your own or someone else’s. It might be surprising, but I’m a naturally quiet person. I tend to listen more than I speak, and at times, I genuinely find myself with nothing to say. When I embarked on my career as a marketing intern, I played the role of a diligent note-taker in meetings, rarely contributing unless explicitly asked for my input. If I had something to discuss, I’d wait until after the meeting. The reasons behind this trait might be tied to my schooling or upbringing, but I’ll keep those details under wraps for now. When I did muster the courage to speak, my voice often came out as a timid whisper, drawing everyone’s attention and triggering my anxiety. The voices in my head would chant, “Everyone’s looking at you; you’d better say something smart.” Self-doubt would creep in, and I’d fear that my contribution would be random and disrupt the productive discussion that had been ongoing. For a long time, I felt incapable of having spontaneous, productive conversations.

So, why are first impressions so vital? In a nutshell, when the stakes are high, it’s less about what you know about your true self and more about how you present your true self. Returning to my intern days, I shared that story because I wanted to convey that I knew my capabilities, but every time I spoke, self-doubt crept in. You can’t create a great first impression if you’re not authentic or if you’re unsure of how to make your initial interactions memorable and meaningful. Other reasons include:

  • Establishing Trust and Credibility: A positive first impression builds trust and credibility with others, instilling confidence in your intentions and abilities.
  • Opening Doors to Opportunities: A strong first impression can unlock doors to new relationships, opportunities, and career advancement by shaping people’s perceptions and decisions.
  • Enhancing Communication and Well-Being: A good first impression can lead to more effective communication, bolster your self-confidence, and contribute to your overall well-being, both personally and professionally.

Interestingly, first impressions are more crucial for you than for your “audience.” This is because you must ensure that the impression you create aligns with who you truly are, your beliefs, and your capabilities. You might be a reliable and passionate individual, but if you show up for meetings with low energy, poor preparation, and incoherent thoughts, it’s often because you need to acquire specific skills.

Maybe you’re not nailing it the first time because your communication skills need refinement, your sense of style requires attention, or you grapple with confidence issues or stage fright. It is key in all aspects of life, to be deliberate, including first impressions. Remember the story of Moses, who told God he couldn’t speak, and God assured him that He would provide the words and teach him? Moses, however, persisted and even mentioned his brother Aaron, a skilled orator. In the end, God allowed Moses to bring Aaron along and promised to teach them both. This story is inspiring because it underscores that you can learn the skills needed to create the right impression. It also highlights the importance of assembling the right team for the job. While you might impress someone at a party, there are times when you need a wingman or wingwoman. However, keep in mind that they won’t always be there, which is why it’s essential to identify the skills necessary to present the best version of yourself consistently.

So, how do you get started? It begins with:

1. Self-awareness and Preparation:

  • Understand your strengths, weaknesses, values, and goals to present your authentic self.
  • Prepare for interactions by conducting research and practicing when necessary.

2. Effective Communication and Attitude:

  • Communicate clearly, actively listen, and use positive language.
  • Project confidence without appearing arrogant, show respect, and prioritise punctuality.

3. Adaptability and Continuous Improvement:

  • Adapt to social cues and practice empathy towards others.
  • Reflect on each interaction, express gratitude, and strive for inclusivity, all of which will help you refine your approach over time.

Remember, creating a strong first impression isn’t a one-time feat; it’s a skill to develop and refine continuously. By cultivating these qualities and approaches, you can consistently make memorable and impactful first impressions in various aspects of your life, whether it’s in business, networking, or personal relationships. So, step into every situation with the confidence to be the best version of yourself, leaving a lasting and positive mark on those you encounter.