Addresses Quote by Lord Chesterfield
“A man's fortune is frequently decided by his first address. If pleasing, others at once conclude he has merit; but if ungraceful, they decide against him.”
About This Quote
Source Letter: Advice to a Young Man, 1748
First impressions shape reputation; courteous speech can earn respect, while rudeness can ruin it.
In simple terms: Politeness wins; rudeness loses.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate gracious communication.
Themes
etiquette
reputation
communication
Mood
thoughtful
practical
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- job interviews
- networking events
- first dates
Key Concepts
social psychology
sociolinguistics
Questions to Reflect On
- How will you make a positive first impression?
- Can you recover from a poor first impression?
A Different Perspective
People may change opinions over time despite first impressions.
![“[T]he appropriate form of address between man and man ought to be, not monsieur, sir, but fellow sufferer, compagnon de miseres.” quote by Arthur Schopenhauer](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/be6/arthur-schopenhauer-226_addresses_t-he-appropriate-form-of-address-between_32897.jpg)
