The Cold Hard Science Behind Image & Impressions
January 19, 2016
By Brian Maynor
Being in the business of first impressions, a lot of facts are gleaned from experience and feelings, but it’s nice to have the support of cold, hard, unbiased science.
Whether you want to interpret this data into your professional development, personal growth or even dating life here are a few ‘facts’ you should remember to gain better leverage out of your image:
1. The science of ‘Thin Slicing.’ Our brains are bombarded with stimuli and information every second and it would be impossible for us to wait and draw conclusions after processing all of it, so instead our brains ‘thin slice’ this information. In other words, we reach conclusions based on momentary exposure. This is something our brains do automatically and applies as much to people as situations, and we actually rely heavily on it. Paying close attention to a few details for mere seconds will give us a lot of useful information.
2. Moments matter. How important is one-tenth of a second? According to researchers at Princeton all we need to determine trustworthiness is 100 milliseconds. While competence and attractiveness are affected by longer exposure, trustworthiness is judged in the very first moment of meeting someone.
3. Handshakes connect. Everyone knows a ‘good’ handshake is important, particularly in a business setting, but do you know why? It’s not because it signifies confidence or authority, but because it makes you seem approachable. A handshake is the safest display of affection that actually creates a connection with the other person.
4. Fashion is influential. Whether you agree with the facts or not, you can’t dispute the mountains of research that proves the perception of success is directly tied to what you wear. These studies connect how you dress to the perception that you make more money or climb the corporate ladder quicker (American Psychological Association), as well as how wearing a tailored outfit as opposed to one off-the-rack will give you the perception of being smarter and more successful (Journal of Fashion Marketing and Management).
5. The persistence of first impression. It is possible to overcome a bad first impression it’s hard because it takes multiple encounters to replace a first impression and people are lazy (Psych Central). Let’s face it, you aren’t going to put any effort into getting to know someone unless they are important to you for some reason, i.e. you have to work with them every day. That means for the people you meet once or those in your peripheral sphere your first impression of them will be your lasting impression.
Forming first impressions after mere moments of meeting someone or entering a situation is not something we do voluntarily. It’s simply the science of how our brain works. With that being the case, we have to pay extra-careful attention to the impression we are making because we aren’t guaranteed the opportunity to change it.
Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.
Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.
I am always curious to hear from you and what you see in the workplace. Send your questions, comments and pet peeves to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.
About Brian Maynor
Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.
.
