The first impression and the 7-second test, by Pilar Ortiz
December 10, 2020
The following blog has been written based on a talk given by Maria Elena Campos in one of my PAC sessions. I have taken the liberty of summarizing its content and placing it in this blog entry.
Before we really get to know a person, we will always have a first impression of them; we start scanning them and see what repels or calls our attention. And this dynamic doesn't just stay in the physical world, virtually the same thing happens. If the person has made such an impact on that first impression, you get to think "I want to meet that person, I want to talk to the person inside that little square over there”.
Jeff Bezos says the personal brand is what people say about us when we're not in the room. It's the impression that's left on people. What do people say about you when you're not at the event? When you're not in the office or the company? That's your personal brand. To put it in simpler terms, your personal brand is your reputation. It's the reputation that you've built and the reputation that changes over the years.
I'll give you an example: we all know people who have small children. When you plan a meeting and you are told that they are going to bring their child, it is going to provoke a reaction from the reputation you have for the child. If you're attracted to the child's energy, you'll be more likely to say, "Yes, let him come!" whereas if you know the child is problematic, you won't have the same reaction. Reputation begins in childhood and evolves overtime.
What is your reputation?
Your reputation consists of 4 fundamental pillars: appearance (the physical part), behavior (ethics, how you perform), communication (how you communicate with others, how confidently you do it, your social manners), and digital branding (social networks, virtual profile).
This time we are going to focus on appearance. 93% of reputation and how people perceive us is based on how we look and sound. That's the first impression we give. No more than 7% is what we say, the words and the content of what we express.
Even if you don't believe me, each of us has only 7 seconds or less to make a first impression. Whether it is a bad, medium or excellent impression.
Your appearance speaks to the world without saying a single word, it sends a message, demonstrates your lifestyle, and makes a first impression on people. Your appearance represents you, your organization, your company, your neighborhood, etc. And it takes only 7 seconds to make that impression.
Now, let's take a look at the 7 main areas to start working on your appearance and start identifying that impression you're projecting.
- Shoes: you need to feel comfortable. If they are too tight, it will show on your face. Your shoes must always be in good condition. They should feel comfortable and empowering.
- Nails: no matter what the color and shape are. The main thing is to keep them clean, in good condition.
- Hair: it calls a lot of attention, as how you have it will always send a message. The color and hairstyle will define the first impression. Be careful because sometimes your hair may work as a barrier, covering your eyes and face.
- Clothing: the colors we use, the style of our clothes says a lot about us and how we present ourselves. Wrinkled, faded clothes, what impression does that give? Very tight clothes do not allow us to move and the discomfort is reflected in our face. Black and white clothes must be impeccable and in perfect condition. They are colors that easily lose their intensity, and when they are not in their optimal state, it is quite noticeable (discoloration, fuzz, stains, etc.)
- Accessories: there are traditional ones such as pearl necklaces, earrings, or cufflinks and watches for men. We talk about purses and wallets that represent our style. How organized are they? Nowadays, masks are very important! You can think of masks that go with your style, they can work as an icebreaker to help you direct the conversation. The accessories draw attention and keep the conversation going.
- Posture: from face-to-face conversation to the Zoom meeting, how we stand up (or sit) will define our appearance a lot. It is important to maintain an upright posture, with your head up and your shoulders back.
- Gestures: the smile. Our gestures invite or repel. Smiling is a fundamental practice to make a good impression.
Remember, you must align your image with your message. Defining your message and your image will allow you to have a powerful first impression and greater self-confidence.
