Breakdown:

1. First Impressions Are Driven by Two Key Traits
   When meeting someone new, 82% of our initial impressions are based on two core traits: warmth and competence. It’s not about how attractive, tall, or wealthy you are, but how quickly you can signal that you are friendly and capable. These two traits form the foundation of how people perceive you.
2. Warmth: Building Trust Instantly
   Warmth is the first signal we look for in others. It answers the question, “Can I trust you?” From a body language perspective, warmth can be conveyed through open posture, eye contact, smiling, and a friendly tone of voice. The faster you can show warmth, the faster others will trust you and feel comfortable around you.
3. Competence: Earning Respect
   While warmth creates trust, competence earns respect. Competence refers to your ability to get things done and be reliable. It’s about showing others that you are capable, knowledgeable, and skilled. This can be conveyed through confident gestures, clear communication, and assertive actions.
4. Why Warmth and Competence Matter More Than Appearance
   People often think that physical appearance, wealth, or status drive first impressions, but research shows that warmth and competence are far more important. These traits determine how likable and respected you are, regardless of your looks, height, or financial status.
5. The Speed of First Impressions
   First impressions happen fast. The moment you step into a room, appear on video, or start speaking, people are already forming opinions about you. The quicker you can communicate both warmth and competence, the more successful your interactions will be.
6. Body Language: A Key to Signaling Warmth and Competence
   Your body language plays a huge role in conveying these two traits. Warmth can be signaled through a smile, relaxed posture, and nodding in agreement. Competence is communicated through confident eye contact, clear speech, and decisive movements. The combination of these signals shapes how others view you.
7. Applying This in Everyday Life
   Whether you’re walking into a meeting, starting a video call, or introducing yourself at a social event, make it a priority to project both warmth and competence. Start with a friendly greeting to build trust, then show your expertise through confident communication and action. These two qualities will set the tone for positive and successful interactions.
8. Warmth and Competence in Professional and Personal Relationships
   In both professional and personal settings, the balance of warmth and competence is crucial. People want to feel that they can trust you and that you are capable. By mastering these traits, you can build strong relationships, be more persuasive, and create lasting positive impressions.

In summary, first impressions are shaped largely by how quickly you can convey warmth and competence. These two traits determine whether people like you and respect you, far more than appearance or status. By focusing on signaling trust and reliability through your body language and communication, you can create strong and lasting impressions in any situation.