A Gentleman’s Guide to Being Memorable

27 seconds.

According to experts, that’s how long you have to make a good first impression.

Whether it’s a first date, interview, or business meeting, research shows that nearly 70% of Americans form a first impression about someone before any conversation happens.

The famous saying, “You don't get a second chance to make a first impression,” could not be more true. Every new interaction often sets the tone for the relationship that follows, and it’s very difficult to go back from that first initial encounter.

Seeing that time is of the essence when you first meet someone, here’s how you can effortlessly make your mark.

Be on Time

It’s possible to impress or turn someone off before you even show up. If you have an appointment scheduled, running late will be an immediate turnoff.

Traffic and other hold ups can and do happen, so give yourself enough time. Being punctual (and even a few minutes early!) will set the stage toward creating a great first impression.

Make Eye Contact

Human connections start when you look one another in the eyes, and the best leaders know how to engage and make eye contact with those they are speaking to.

Eyes are expressive. If you avoid or don't make good eye contact, you may come off as uncomfortable or disingenuous. 

There is, however, a difference between appropriate eye contact and staring, which is typically unadvisable. To maintain good eye contact, you should look at someone for 50% of the time while speaking and 70% of the time while listening.

“It's Nice to Smell You”

Research show that smelling badly is the #1 contributor to making a bad first impression.

As a result, your fragrance plays a big part in how others perceive and remember you. 

Smelling great not only leaves a lasting first impression, but if handled correctly may nicely linger once you’ve left the room. 

Thankfully, there are so many ways you can use fragrance to be memorable. We recommend using and applying a bay rum aftershave. 

A few quick tips for application: 

• Apply after a shower on clean, dry skin.
• Use on pulse points - the inner wrists and neck make an excellent combination
• when spritzing, hold the bottle 3-6 inches away from your skin. 
• Keep it light - 2-4 squirts will be more than enough. 
• Instead of rubbing in, let it absorb into your clean skin. 

Want to make an excellent impression with your scent? 

At St Johns, we are partial to our fragrances. From cologne and aftershave to soap,  our masculine, fresh, and authentic scents have helped men make their mark for over 70 years!

Dress Appropriately

Perhaps the biggest key to great style is dressing for the occasion.

A three-piece business suit may not be the right fit if you’re interviewing at a creative start-up, whereas it’s likely appropriate for meeting a partner at a law firm.

Knowing your audience will help you set the tone for knowing how to dress, and therefore making a good first impression.

Show Off that Smile

A warm, genuine, and confident smile is important when meeting someone for the first time. It automatically makes both you and the person you’re meeting more comfortable. Smiling creates a more friendly dynamic and puts people at ease.

Louis Armstrong couldn’t be more right when he sang, “When you’re smiling, the whole world smiles with you.”

Be Positive & Energetic

Attitude is everything, and yours will be apparent right away. Even if you’re nervous, your ability to project an upbeat and approachable demeanor will make and leave a great first impression. 

Avoid being overly critical or complaining. Well-received people are those who keep things positive, upbeat, and express gratitude.

Keep it Real

Put simply, be yourself.

There’s nothing more impressive than someone who shows up confidently and authentically. Nobody likes a phony, so find ways to express how and why you’re unique.   

Be a Gentleman

Good manners never go out of style.

Whether you’re meeting someone for the first or 50th time, respect, courtesy, and politeness will always be appreciated. Be attentive and either put away or turn off your phone so that you can be fully present.

There’s nothing more memorable than someone who is engaged and interested in those they are speaking to.

Take Advantage of Your 27 Seconds

As you know, your window of time to make a great first impression is extremely short.

Take our advice, spray on some St Johns , be punctual, and go be your authentic self!