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You may have heard the saying, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression,” and when it comes to dating, the first impression can make or break your future relationship. Studies have shown that the first 30 seconds of your first impression can determine whether or not each person will remain interested in pursuing communication. Therefore, if you like what you see and want to give a relationship a try, it is imperative that your first impression is one that will last and leave him or her wanting to get to know more about you.
There are three areas that are of the utmost importance when it comes to making a great first impression. The first area involves your non-verbal communication. Or your body language. Some research suggests that more important than what you say during your first meeting, is how you say it. You should always be aware of your body language and ensure that when you first meet someone that you are standing tall, smiling, and presenting yourself in a postive manner. Slouching, or having bad mannerisms can come across and ruin your first impression. Be aware of your body language and recognize that what your body is saying is just as important as what you are saying. You should also sound relaxed, calm, and self-assured when you meet someone for the first time. This brings us to the second important area, voice.
When you are meeting someone for the first time, you will need to ensure that you are speaking to him or her in a clear and pleasant tone of voice. If you are angry or upset and this is conveyed in the tone of your voice, you may forever be remembered as the “angry guy or “the girl with the attitude”. Also, you want to avoid stammering or stuttering which may be a problem for some when they are nervous or in unfamiliar situations. It may be beneficial to practice in front of your mirror to help you get past the rough spots. Try to stay positive and upbeat and you will find that your self-confidence rises and you will sound more confident when making your first introductions.
Finally, the last area of importance when making first impressions is what you are saying. Once you have your body language, mannerisms, vocal inflection, tone, and self-confidence in alignment it is important to make sure that you say the right things and don’t come off looking immature, foolish, or worse arrogant.
When you first meet someone, offer them your hand along with a sincere compliment. When you are speaking, remember to listen and not focus only on yourself. The last thing that you will want to do is spend the evening talking about yourself and not finding out anything about your date. It is also a good idea to use your date’s name frequently in the conversation. Repeating back some of your date’s comments before answering them also lets them know that you are paying attention and listening. Just don’t over do it, you don’t want to sound like a parrot. But simply repeating information or using phrases such as: I hear what you’re saying, or I understand completely will help your date to know that you are validating their opinions and will help make your first impression one that will last.
