James Baquet

    Today's expression, "First impressions are lasting impressions," is often true — even if it's unfair!

    It means that what people think when they first meet someone often affects everything else they think about that person. For example, if a salesperson who calls on a customer is dressed and groomed in a sloppy way, it doesn't really matter how well he sells: the "bad impression" has been made, and the customer probably won't change his mind.

    Of course it's not 100 percent true, but it's a good guideline.

    By the way, there's a little joke in there. For something to "last" means for it to "stay for a long time" (or forever). Of course, "last" also means the opposite of "first." So when some people say it, "First impressions last," it's a little confusing, but kind of funny.

    Let's see a joke about the expression in today's dialogue.

    James sees his student, a boy named Oscar, walking across campus in a suit and tie.

    James: Oscar! Looking good, Buddy!

    Oscar: Yeah, had to put on my best duds. Job interview.

    James: Ah, "first impressions," huh?

    Oscar: Yeah. I just hope it's not the LAST impression.

    James: Ugh!

    Oscar: Not funny?

    James: Maybe you'd best not try to be humorous in the interview.

    Oscar: What? I thought it was good to "open with a joke."

    James: What kind of company?

    Oscar: A law firm.

    James: Definitely no jokes! Best foot forward, and all that.

    Oscar: Gotcha. Any other tips?

    James: Well, since you're on your way, I assume you're well-prepared…

    Oscar: Check!

    James: Copies of your resume, pen and paper in that briefcase?

    Oscar: Check!

    James: Then it's just "look confident," "show what you know," and "arrive early."

    Oscar: Speaking of which…

    James: Knock 'em dead, Tiger!

    Oscar: Thanks, James

    Notes on the dialogue:

    — Looking good: Something said when someone's appearance is better than usual.

    — Buddy!: A friendly form of address.

    — Duds: Slang for "clothes."

    — The LAST impression: Oscar is joking that he hopes he will see these people again (maybe for another interview, or because he gets hired).

    — Ugh!: A sound of disgust; here, it's joking.

    — Open with a joke: A common technique in public speaking.

    — (Put your) best foot forward: Make the best possible impression at first.

    — Check!: Said in response to people reading items from a list.

    — "Look confident," "show what you know," and "arrive early": Standard advice for interviews.

    — Speaking of which…: Refers back to something said; here, Oscar means he has to leave if he wants to be early.

    — Knock 'em dead: Impress them tremendously.

    — Tiger: Another affectionate nickname.