People develop first impressions of you in a tenth of a second

People develop first impressions of you in a tenth of a second.

Have you ever wondered how quickly people form opinions about you? According to a study published in the Journal of Psychological Science¹, it takes just a tenth of a second for individuals to develop their initial perception of you. Yes, you read that right – a mere fraction of a second is all it takes for someone to form an impression of who you are.

This finding may seem astonishing, but it underlines the critical importance of making a strong and positive first impression. From a job interview to meeting new people, it is crucial to be aware of the impact you make on others in those initial moments.

But how do people form impressions so quickly? The human brain is wired to process visual information rapidly. When meeting someone for the first time, our brain begins processing their appearance, facial expressions, body language, and other non-verbal cues instantaneously. Within that minuscule fraction of time, the brain already starts forming judgments based on these visual signals. These rapid judgments then lay the foundation for subsequent interactions and perceptions.

Making a positive first impression is crucial in various aspects of life – personal, social, and professional. When it comes to the workplace, studies show that hiring managers often make up their minds about job candidates within seconds of meeting them¹. This emphasizes the significance of dressing appropriately, maintaining eye contact, and displaying confident body language during interviews.

Social interactions also heavily rely on the initial impressions formed during those early encounters. Whether it is a potential friendship or romantic interest, people tend to base their future expectations and judgments on their initial assessment of the individual. Being aware of your verbal and non-verbal cues, and ensuring they align with the impression you wish to convey, can positively influence these encounters.

It is important to remember that first impressions are not always accurate. The initial judgments we make about others may not necessarily reflect their true personality or capabilities. However, these snap judgments still influence our subsequent behavior and interactions.

In conclusion, the study published in the Journal of Psychological Science highlights the incredible speed at which humans form first impressions – a mere tenth of a second. This finding underscores the importance of being mindful of our appearance, behavior, and body language in any situation where we meet new people. By consciously managing these aspects, we can strive to create positive and lasting impressions that align with who we truly are.