The Power of First Impressions

“You only make one first impression.”

We’ve all heard that saying before. Whether in terms of your personal or professional life, it’s often hard to get a second chance to make a first impression. Why is that?

The Power of First Impressions

Did you know it takes only three to five seconds for someone to form a first impression? This is of you (as a person) and of your business (as a whole). And, for better or for worse, most studies show that first impressions are shaped by what can be seen or heard in those initial few seconds. Furthermore, first impressions are often generated on a subconscious level – how did stepping into your business make them feel? What did they sense (smell, taste, feel)?

If a customer’s first impression with you is positive, it can lead to brand loyalty and more positive experiences with your business. However, if they have a negative first impression, you will have to work really hard to overcome this cognitive bias against your business.

Think about it… if you try a new coffee shop and find the line to be a little long, the barista to be a little slow and and then the sugar/cream station to be a little messy or in need of refill, will you be able to form an honest opinion of how good the coffee tastes once you get your cup? Some studies suggest that you might not be able to – because your initial (and subconscious) impression is one of disorder and inconvenience.

Don’t get us wrong – we know that even at the best coffee shops things get backed up, or messy or someone gets an order wrong. But we also know that if your customers’ first (and most consistent) impression of your business is positive, they’re more likely to forgive the slip ups and stay a loyal customer.

Managing Your Business’ First Impression

Over the next few weeks, we’ll share tips on how you can make small changes at your retail shop, restaurant, bar, café or salon to make a big impact in how your business is perceived by your customers, both current and new. Even if you haven’t always projected the best image, or, if you’ve let things slip a little lately, we’ll help you control what your customers see and how they perceive what they see. We’ll also help you get your employees involved to maintain your new image so that your business exudes competence, confidence and likeability. How does that sound?

Stay tuned!