It's time to create an Impression!!!

How long do you think others take to have an impression about you and judge you? 30 seconds? 15 seconds? 5 seconds? Well, forget whatever figure you may have heard because some of the new research says it could happen with the blink of an eye. One look is all it takes to make an opinion about you and 'label' you. Unfair - you say? Think about it, even we do it.

It happens at a sub-conscious level but more often than not you make an impression about someone the moment you meet them. According to one study, where untrained subjects were shown 20- to 32-second video-taped segments of job applicants greeting interviewers, the subjects were asked to rate the applicants on attributes such as self-assurance and likability. Surprisingly, their assessments were very close to those of trained interviewers who spent at least 20 minutes with each applicant.

Our brain the takes first-impression snapshots, creating a composite of all the signals given off by a new experience. These usually are a holistic phenomenon in which clues which could include, mellifluous voice, Rolex watch, soggy handshake, hunched shoulders, etc,  are processed at once to form an impression larger than their sum. When you see a person with a Rolex watch, your brain automatically processes the information and tells you that this person is well to do.

First impressions are very important to a person whether in there career or private lives. We do not get a second chance, thus, we should be aware about making a good impression the first time around.

• Once you understand the impact of first impressions, it is time to get your act together and use this knowledge to your advantage. A better first impression will give you an edge over others around you.
• It's all about the effort - You cannot make good first impressions without making an effort. Be aware of the situation and your surroundings. From your clothes to your accessories to your handshake to even your smile - everything matters. Positivity and confidence will always shine through- people like those who are sure of themselves.
• Power of Introduction - We under-estimate the power of introduction which is a very important tool. It is advisable to have two different introductions, one you can use in a formal/business gathering and the other for a social gathering. Write it down on a piece of paper, add your achievments, make it consise but effective. Practice saying it in front of the mirror with confidence till it comes naturally to you. The next time you introduce yourself, you will surely make a great first impression.
• Maintaining the impression - Once you manage to create a good impression, make sure to maintain it. You cannot come across as confident and jovial one day and snobbish on the next day. It is about creating a consistency in your impression which will then add on to your image.

 Your impression and image will influence the brand you create for yourself, you may refer to my article on 'personal branding' - which will definitely give you an edge over others in the midst of all the competition. 'Impress' away and capture success!