Plus, you won’t have to evaluate an individual’s demeanor, physical appearance, or facial expressions, thus increasing your objectivity. Conduct a Phone Interview: Similar to blind auditions on The Voice, initially conducting a phone interview will allow you to focus on the applicant’s experience and skills.It’s human instinct to ask easier questions to individuals we feel good about and ask harder questions when we have a negative feeling, even if the latter may be the better candidate. However, first impressions are often inaccurate, and various studies suggest first impression bias is the leading cause of hiring errors.

It can be easy to fall into the trap of assuming an applicant’s friendliness or customer service skills based on appearance. Research has found that most people form impressions about personality based on facial appearance. So, how important are first impressions in business? However, first impression bias can impede effective hiring as it is often inaccurate. Why? Our brain makes quick, incomplete observations based on what we perceive - this is called first impression bias, or first impression error.

In fact, 33% of hiring managersreport they know whether or not they will hire someone in the first 90 seconds. Whether you’re an owner, operator, or job seeker, first impressions in business are important. Some studies even suggest first impressions are made within milliseconds. It takes seven seconds to make a solid first impression.

First impression bias