An expert in mental strength reveals the most effective method for making a great first impression, which is applicable in nearly all scenarios.

Research indicates that individuals form judgments about competence, trustworthiness, and other traits within a tenth of a second.

The perception formed in the first second or the first five minutes can persist. As the saying goes, you won't get a second chance to make a first impression.

Ensuring a positive first impression is crucial, as it can significantly impact outcomes such as not obtaining a desired job or missing out on a promising second date. How can you guarantee a positive first impression?

When meeting someone for the first time, focus on them rather than yourself by using a single highly effective strategy.

Be interested, not interesting

Instead of trying to impress the other person with your own dazzling words, show genuine interest in what they have to say.

Instead of trying to redirect the conversation back to themselves to impress others, people should ask questions and follow-ups to deepen their connections with their conversation partners.

To create a warm, memorable conversation that makes the other person feel cared for, I've found that almost everyone likes to talk about themselves or a topic they're passionate about if they sense the other person is truly interested. This strategy works in nearly every situation.

Instead of pushing the wrong first impression by focusing on yourself and trying to impress others, you can pull the right first impression by engaging in conversation with care and emotional intelligence.

It is more effective to "pull" than "push." Here are three easy steps to implement.

1. Listen with laser focus

Rewritten sentence: Listen attentively to what the other person is saying without feeling the need to interject your own thoughts or opinions.

Rewritten sentence: Listen, breathe, and be genuinely interested in what the person is saying.

I am fully present and engaged in this conversation.

• "Zone in, not out"
• "Run your mind, don't let it run you"
• "Be mindful, not mind full"

Before approaching someone with a strategy, consider using the wet sponge method to clear away distractions and focus on the conversation.

2. Ask good questions and follow-ups

Rewritten: Asking follow-up questions demonstrates active listening, appreciation, validation, and a desire to learn more, which helps keep the conversation flowing and fosters a sense of connection and warmth.

A good question is one that:

• Builds on a detail someone shared, showing that you're actively listening
• Feeds your curiosity about the topic, further indicating your genuine interest
• To delve further into a topic that interests the other person, such as productivity, you could inquire, "Although the technique you mentioned has been around for a long time, it seems to be gaining popularity again. What do you think is driving this resurgence?"
• Can you suggest a topic that would allow the other person to share their expertise or experience?

Can you provide more information about that?

3. Mind your visual and verbal cues

Your actions are just as important as your words.

Rewritten sentence: Can you please provide me with the new version of the sentence?

Can you please provide me with the original sentence?

Scott Mautz is a well-known speaker, trainer, and LinkedIn Learning instructor. He was previously a senior executive at Procter & Gamble, where he oversaw several of the company's largest multi-billion-dollar businesses. He is the author of "The Mentally Strong Leader: Develop the Skills to Control Your Emotions, Thoughts, and Actions." Connect with him on LinkedIn.

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