The first impressions we make on those around us matter.
I know we don't want our appearance to matter hugely, and of course what's "inside" is more important, but the truth is our appearance matters.
And the first impressions we make on those around us is a powerful tool we can use to our advantage.
Psychological impact
It takes 7 seconds for a person to make a first impression. 7 seconds! And based on those first impressions we will often make various other assumptions. This is also known as the "halo effect". The halo effect is a cognitive bias in which our impression of a person influences how we think and feel about the person.
A piece of startling research I came across recently looked at over 4,500 students and their academic records. A group of 28 people rated the attractiveness of these students. Researchers then compared the students' grades between classes taken in person to classes online. The findings? Those students who were rated as "above average" in their attractiveness scored significantly lower grades in their online classes [1]. That's quite shocking, isn't it? Those who were deemed to be more attractive achieved higher marks in person.
Professionalism and credibility
It probably goes without saying a polished look gives an impression of attention to detail, self respect and respect to those around you. A strong first impression can make the difference in looking professional as opposed to slap dash. A sloppy appearance may be perceived as careless and not taking your job or role seriously. Those first impressions can signal credibility to colleagues. We all want to give an air of knowledge and confidence and how we present ourselves can be a tool we employ to add to our credibility.
Building relationships
Relationships are built on trust and rapport. Whether these are relationships with colleagues, family members or simply acquaintances you occasionally bump into - we all exude first impressions, as well as make our own conclusions on who we meet. These first impressions have an impact whether we like it or not. Your appearance can either facilitate great foundations for these relationships - or hinder them. How you present yourself can help you to build rapport more easily and foster great relationships. Who doesn't want that?!
Personal branding
Branding is a term I've become familiar with in these last 2 years since founding my business but I've come to learn that we all, in fact, have a personal brand. Our personal brand is how we present ourselves to others - what our values, beliefs and identity are. The first impressions we make in the world send a message on what our identity and personality is. We can all influence the creation of a cohesive and memorable first impression on others and affect a solid first impression. Our own personal brand can show the world we act with integrity.
There is so much power in first impressions. This is one of the reasons why I feel so strongly that clothes are so much more than a superficial part of us. Clothes are not simply a fashion choice. How we dress matters. It can make us feel differently. It can affect our relationships. There is power in those first impressions and we can influence what people think of us in just 7 seconds. Let's use that to our advantage!
You can work with me in a variety of ways to ensure you're making the first impression you want to make. My services include Colour Analysis, Wardrobe Restyles and Personal Shopping. Visit my website www.stylegalore.co.uk/services for further information.
Slán go fóill (bye for now),
Lou x
Hernandez-Julian R, Peters C. Student appearance and academic performance. Journal of Human Capital. 2017;11(2):247-262. doi:10.1086/691698
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