The Surprising Science of First Impressions: What It Means for Experiential Learning
First Impressions Aren’t What You Think They Are: 5 New Psychological Insights
We all make them. But how accurate are our first impressions? And more importantly, how can understanding them enhance how we train, lead, and collaborate?
At Azesta, we’re fascinated by the latest psychological research and how it intersects with experiential learning. Whether you’re a leader, facilitator, or team member, this cutting-edge insight will help you reframe your interactions and maximise engagement.
1. Facial First Impressions Are Often Wrong
According to a study in Nature Human Behaviour by Alexander Todorov and colleagues at Princeton, people tend to judge others based on how closely their face matches what they believe to be "typical." This results in snap judgements that feel accurate but are often based on bias and not behaviour.
What it means for experiential learning: We encourage teams to go beyond the surface. Our exercises place people in real scenarios where actions and reactions replace assumptions. It's not about looking the part — it's about being the part.
2. Self-Esteem Shapes First Impressions
A 2024 study by Gazzard Kerr and Lauren Human found that people with high self-esteem are perceived more accurately — and often more positively. In contrast, people with low self-esteem may be seen less favourably when accurately read.
Azesta in action: Our experiential sessions create safe environments that empower individuals, building self-awareness and confidence. When people feel valued, their impact in first impressions improves naturally.
3. Wellbeing = Visibility
In a speed-dating experiment, those with higher wellbeing were more consistently and accurately understood. People with lower wellbeing were harder to read and connect with.
Learning point: Teams function best when people feel good. That’s why our programmes incorporate reflection, support, and wellbeing checks. A thriving team is a readable, connectable team.
4. We Underrate Our Likeability
We often walk away from first meetings underestimating how much others liked us. According to Eva Bleckmann and her 2024 research team, extraversion and self-esteem boost early confidence, but later interactions rely more on genuine connection than personality alone.
How we use this: Experiential learning levels the playing field. We help participants experience success through action, feedback and group support, not just charisma.
5. Virtual Impressions Are Surprisingly Accurate
New studies from Durham University and Cornell University show that Zoom-based impressions are just as reliable as face-to-face ones. Elements like a bookcase or plants in the background boost credibility, and smiles count more than you think.
Hybrid-ready facilitation: At Azesta, we help facilitators harness this power in virtual settings. Good design and emotional presence work across all formats when used intentionally.
Why This Matters: First Impressions in Experiential Learning
In our world of experiential development, the moments people meet, collaborate, or lead are everything. These new findings support what we see every day:
Mindset matters.
Confidence is contagious.
Connection beats assumption.
Whether you're building high-performing teams, delivering engaging training, or nurturing tomorrow's leaders, understanding the science of first impressions is key.
Final Thought
In experiential learning, we help people experience better ways of working and relating. And when it comes to first impressions, that experience just might change everything.
References:
Todorov, A. et al. (2024) – Nature Human Behaviour
Gazzard Kerr, L. & Human, L. (2024) – Self-Esteem and First Impressions
Bleckmann, E. et al. (2024) – University of Hamburg, Perceptions of Likeability
Cook, A. et al. (2023) – Durham University, Zoom Perceptions
Mignault, M.-C. et al. (2024) – Cornell University, Online vs In-Person Judgements
Want to bring these insights to your team? Let’s talk about how experiential learning can improve not just what people do, but how they’re seen.
☎️ 01423 711904 | ✉️ hello@azesta.co.uk | 🌐 www.azesta.co.uk
