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will create a lasting first impression, and that person will assume to
know everything about you? Like it or not, it's true and the work
world demands making a great first impression and keeping it. Learn
how to make a great first impression in this article from a human
resources expert and image consultant.

In the Concise Oxford Dictionary, image is described as "the character
or reputation of a person or thing as generally perceived". A first
impression based on non-verbal communication goes a long way in
influencing this perception. Within seconds of meeting you, based on
a single observed physical trait or behavior, people will assume to
know everything about you (as is explained in the 2003 book Social
Psychology by H. Andrew Michener, John D. Delamater, and Daniel J.
Myers). Furthermore, according to research by Dr. Albert Mehrabian
of UCLA, appearance and body language (visual image) accounts for
fifty-five percent of an invaluable first impression.

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN IMAGE AND HOW YOU
ARE PERCEIVED

Since light travels faster than sound, you are seen before you are heard.
This is why, before even uttering a word your visual image will say a
multitude about you as an individual (your perceived level of
intelligence, competence, affability, self-esteem, confidence, power,
beliefs and success) and about the organization you represent (its
philosophy, culture, and standard of service).

You constantly send out silent messages providing clues to both
existing and potential clients and colleagues. Based on these clues,
they take their cues, e.g. consider you for a job or promotion, consider
buying your organization's products and services, etc.

The National Research Council of Canada's Caroline Dunn and
Lucette Charette found that, "People are affected by your appearance,
whether or not they realize it, and whether or not they think
appearance is important." In short, your visual presentation has
consequences.
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