first impressions

A Positive First Impression Is The Key That Opens The Door To A Fantastic Relationship. 

You have one chance to make a positive first impression.  In less than 30 seconds, an opinion is being formed about your financial position, social level, sophistication, trustworthiness, state of mind, educational level, and organizational ability.  Because we judge the world by visualization, our appearance plays an important roll in our lives.  How we relate to prospective mates can make or break the relationship’s initial success.  Our appearance will either draw people to us or turn them away.   

Arrive on time.  Arriving late sends the message the event has low priority.  It gives the impression that either you didn’t care or you are not organized.  Arriving early allows you to be in control and choose your seating to position yourself in the best place to meet and pay full attention to your date.  You will feel more relaxed and confident.   

Be yourself.  In the long term, you want the person to like you not a persona you have created.  Ultimately, this façade will take too much energy and won’t be able to maintain it.  You are a special person with many wonderful qualities just as you are; let that shine. 

Never criticize, complain or gossip.  Negative comments about group members, your boss, your job, business, x mates, etc. doesn’t make them look bad, and it makes you look bad.  People don’t want to associate with negative people. 

Be sure what you choose to wear fits well.  There should be no pulls, gaps or bulges in your clothing.  You want to feel comfortable and not have to give any thought or attention to what you are wearing. 

Flattering colors.  Find out what colors look best on you and stick to them.  This will also help with your wardrobe budget; you will have less clothing and more to wear by mixing and matching complimentary colors.  A good tailor is important. 

Clean, pressed, neat.  Assess what you are going wear before the event.  If it shows any signs of wear and tear, don’t wear it.     

Grooming.   Check you hands; are they ready for holding?  Manicured nails and a little lotion go a long way.  Is your haircut clean, fresh, and current?  Keep facial hair intact. 

Have the appropriate image for the occasion.  Know the proper attire for the occasion.  If you are not sure, ask the host, facility, program coordinator, or your favorite image consultant.  When in doubt dress up, not down.   

Body Language.  Smile and make eye contact when your meet.  Extend a handshake to a man or a woman.  Take your lead from the other person.  If they lean forward to give a light hug or peck on the cheek, you do the same.  This gesture is acceptable only if both of you are comfortable doing so.  Some cultures touch often and some cultures do not.  You may need to do a little research before you meet.