The Science of First Impression & Does it Matter?

I was unwell but dragged myself to the office because I had an important in-person meeting that day.

While waiting for the elevator, I noticed a gentleman standing opposite me. I had never seen him before, but I assumed he was a new employee because I noticed he was wearing the office ID card.

He looked at me and said, Hi.

I barely had the energy to respond. I smiled politely, hoping that would be the end of the conversation.

Ugh, It wasn't.

My name is...he said. May I know your name?

Sharon Swathi Gaddala I replied, quietly looking away and praying the elevator would arrive soon.

Instead, his face LIT UP.

You are Sharon? I've been meeting a lot of people since I joined and you were the one I, was looking forward to meet.

He introduced himself as one of our newly hired executive leaders. Gosh, my heart cracked! I had heard of him.

I was running on zero energy (sigh).

I had come to the office for just a couple of hours. My hair was a messy bun, I looked exhausted, unkempt and had absolutely no interest in having a conversation.

He looked at me intently and asked, Are you okay?

I smiled and said, no. I'm sick. I just came in for one meeting and I'll be heading home.

Thankfully, the elevator arrived.

Before getting out, he said, I'll schedule some time with you. Sure, I replied.

A few days later, I walked into his cabin for that meeting.

This time, I was myself. Well dressed, Hair done, Smiling, Full of energy.

I knocked on the door of his cabin, got in. Hi! How are you today?

He just stared at me like, no words.

For what felt like two full minutes. Finally, he asked, You are Sharon?

I laughed. Yes...(If you know me, you know exactly how I laugh)

Then came the statement I'll never forget. The lady I met near the elevator? You look complete opposite.

I smiled and said, I agree, you caught me on a bad day.

Months later, he said something that fascinated me for a long time.

He confessed, he spent weeks trying to convince himself that "Elevator Sharon" and " The Sharon" were actually the same person. How he was bamboozled.

But that incident taught me something I'll never forget for life. How indelible first impressions are.

Psychologists call this the Primacy Effect. Our tendency to give greater importance to first impressions than to the information we receive later. That's how the brain is wired. Within seconds, people begin forming impressions about our confidence, professionalism and approachability.

Does your clothing create these qualities? Absolutely No.

But it certainly influences whether people initially perceive you as competent, confident, trustworthy and credible.

That's the of Power of a First Impression.

Your appearance is often the first chapter people get to read. Make sure it is a good one.

There will be days when you are exhausted, stressed, overwhelmed or simply not feeling your best. I've had those days too. We all do.

When you step into your professional space, like a workplace, a client meeting, a business event or even a networking session, make a conscious decision to show up well.

If you want to build lasting first impression, Professional Grooming Essentials consultation is best for you. Not just for one meeting, but for life.

To elevate your executive presence and strengthen your personal brand, if you are an executive, senior leader, founder, entrepreneur or a business owner Executive Grooming consultation is designed for you.

I hope no one ever meets you at the elevator, especially when you are sick. Never.

By, Sharon Gaddala

Certified Fashion Stylist

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