You have roughly seven seconds to influence someone's first impression of you. In that fleeting moment, people are already making judgments about who you are. The 7/11 first impression rule suggests that within seven seconds of meeting you, someone will form up to 11 conclusions about your character.

These include: 

- Education level

- Social and professional desirability

- Economic level

- Ethnic background

- Credibility, believability, honesty

- Religious background

- Trustworthiness

- Political background

- Level of sophistication

- Level of success

- Orientation 

While the 7/11 rule isn't extensively backed by peer-reviewed research, numerous independent studies support similar findings. For example, research by Princeton psychologist Alex Todorov shows that people decide if you're likable, trustworthy, and competent within seconds of seeing your face. Other studies indicate that these judgments can happen in as little as 1/10th of a second. That's not enough time to charm someone or explain your qualities. 

Much of this judgment is based on nonverbal cues. Your body posture, facial expressions, and gestures continuously send signals. Importantly, your body language can also influence how you perceive yourself. 

Your Body Language Broadcasts Your Self-Belief

Your brain and sensory network understand that body language silently conveys your emotions. Slumped shoulders, downturned lips, tightly crossed arms, and a sad expression signal that you're not having a great day. Conversely, standing or sitting with your shoulders back, head held high, and an open posture while making eye contact portrays confidence, capability, reliability, and trustworthiness. 

Your Body Language Tells You and Others What You Are Capable of Achieving

Confident body language, even when you don't feel confident, can trick your mind into believing you are. It also influences others to think the same way. Your nonverbal communication skills will impact your success in both personal and professional relationships. Monitor your body language regularly.

Pull your shoulders back, keep your head up, make and maintain eye contact, and adopt an open, non-threatening stance. These simple gestures and postures convey to your mind and others that you are competent and confident. This can lead to more success in life.

Whenever you are ready for the next level I can help you in 2 different ways:

Grab my Online Courses in the Store

Work with me 101 - Unlock Your Legacy Now with Certified High Performance Coaching!