The first things Brits notice when meeting new people are their smile (23%) and their eyes (13%), according to a study – with the typical first impression being formed in just 27 seconds.
More than a third of adults (35%) feel that a first impression is key when it comes to forming new social relationships – and the same number worry it is difficult to change those initial perceptions once they have been made.
As a result, the poll of 2,000 people found that four in ten typically feel nervous, and 35% feel anxious, when meeting someone new for the first time.
But nearly a quarter (23%) stay calm – with 82% saying that having a smile on their face makes them feel more confident during an introductory meeting.
Indeed, half of those polled (51%) feel a friendly smile is the best way to make your mark – followed by good manners (43%), and eye contact (35%).
Dad furious after boy, 6, orders over $1,000 of takeaways while his mum is outOther methods included arriving on time (29%), being conversational (23%), and dressing smartly (15%).
The research also identified scenarios in which people are most keen to impress – with a job interview (68%), a date (52%), and meeting a partner’s parents (38%), named as the top three.
Relationship coach, Charlene Douglas, who has partnered with Listerine, which commissioned the research, said: “We form first impressions subconsciously almost every single day.
“What someone’s wearing, how they carry themselves, and how often they smile, can play a key part in how we form opinions of people we meet.
“The research shows that a friendly smile can go a long way – so it’s just as important to look after your oral health, as well as your attire, to ensure you have the confidence to make a lasting sensational first impression.”
The study also found that, when meeting someone of importance for the first time, 43% try to act welcoming and friendly.
More than three-quarters (83%) agreed confidence is central to making a good first impression, and 63% believe such opinions last a lifetime.
A good night’s sleep (44%), fresh breath (44%), and wearing new clothes (29%) are among the factors that help them feel more confident when meeting someone new.
And those surveyed, via OnePoll, think they make a good first impression 45% of the time.
More than two-thirds (68%) feel they have a good instinct for telling what someone is like, with a third making up their mind in under 10 seconds – and 54% believe their initial opinions of others typically turn out to be true.
'So fed up of tiresome pal flirting with my husband and always putting me down'Charlene Douglas added: “Start the day right and allow yourself enough time to get to important meetings, to avoid the stress of making a good first impression, and it’s likely to come across without having to even try.”
CHARLENE DOUGLAS' TOP TIPS FOR MAKING A GOOD FIRST IMPRESSION: