Why First Impressions Matter More Than You Think

Imagine this…You step into a meeting, notes prepared, smile ready, and confidence high. But before you even open your mouth, the people across the table (or screen) have already sized you up.

They’ve made a snap call on whether you’re trustworthy, likable, and worth listening to.

Unfair?

Absolutely.

Unavoidable?

Completely.

That’s the power—and the reality—of first impressions.

We don’t get a second chance at a first impression—and science backs it up.

The Science of Snap Judgments

• Research from Princeton psychologists Janine Willis and Alexander Todorov shows it takes only a tenth of a second to form an impression of someone’s face (Princeton University, 2006). That’s faster than it takes to send a text.

• A Harvard Business School study found that 80–90% of first impressions are based on two traits: competence (do you know your stuff?) and warmth (can I trust you?).

• First impressions aren’t just fleeting. A study published in Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin showed that even after interacting more deeply, people’s initial impressions are remarkably sticky. Translation: Once someone decides who they think you are, it takes serious effort to change their mind.

Why This Matters in Your Career

Whether you’re leading a meeting, pitching an idea, or networking on Zoom, your first impression sets the tone. It can mean the difference between landing that promotion or being overlooked.

In fact, Forbes reports that 55% of first impressions come from body language, 38% from tone of voice, and only 7% from your actual words (Mehrabian’s Communication Model). That means how you show up is often more important than what you say.

There’s Power of Body Language & Hand Gestures

Here’s where it gets interesting… it’s not just about standing tall and smiling, it’s also about how you move.

• Open gestures = open perception: Using visible, open hand gestures makes you seem more trustworthy and confident. In fact, a study published in Psychological Science found that people who gesture while speaking are perceived as warmer and more persuasive.

• Hands visible = honesty signal: Evolutionary psychology research suggests showing your palms is a universal cue of honesty and non-threat. Hiding your hands (crossed arms, hands in pockets) can signal nervousness or defensiveness.

• Mirroring builds rapport: Subtly mirroring the gestures of the person you’re speaking with can increase likability and trust. Just don’t overdo it—you’re building connection, not mimicking.

• Body posture matters: Standing tall with shoulders back signals confidence and authority. On the flip side, slouching or folding into yourself can unintentionally suggest insecurity or lack of engagement.

Fun fact…Research from the University of Chicago shows that people who use their hands when they talk are also better remembered by their listeners. So, those gestures aren’t just for show, they actually boost communication impact.

In a Virtual World, Impressions Count Too

Think first impressions are only about handshakes and eye contact?

Think again.

On Zoom, people are sizing you up based on:

• Background & setup: Does your space look professional or chaotic?

• Camera presence: Eye contact through the lens matters more than you think.

• Energy & tone: Flat energy on video makes you forgettable. Engaged energy makes you magnetic.

• Hand gestures on camera: Keep your hands visible in the frame. A subtle wave at the start, or using gestures while explaining, can make you appear more authentic and connected.

A 2021 Stanford study even found that people experiencing “Zoom fatigue” rely on these nonverbal cues faster to judge warmth and competence, so your body language on video is amplified.

What You Can Do

Here’s how to nail your first impression whether in person or virtually:
✔ Smile (genuinely) – Studies show it makes you appear more approachable and trustworthy.
✔ Use purposeful gestures – Keep your hands visible, natural, and aligned with your message.
✔ Stand or sit tall – Confident posture communicates competence before you open your mouth.
✔ Mind your energy – Warmth and enthusiasm win people over faster than a perfect elevator pitch.
✔ Prepare your environment – Your Zoom background is part of your brand. Keep it clean, well-lit, and intentional.

The Bottom Line

First impressions aren’t about being fake. They’re about aligning how you show up with the leader, colleague, or professional you already are. When you make those first few seconds count, you’re not just being judged, you’re shaping the narrative.

Because in business, relationships, and leadership… first impressions open the door. The rest of you keeps it open.

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Three things to ALWAYS remember:

Be CONFIDENT!

Be EMPATHETIC!

AND ALWAYS HAVE PASSION!!!!