In these real-life scenarios, as in most situations in life, the immediate reaction is the only reaction that matters. When we meet someone new, whether at work or in a social situation, we begin making judgments instantaneously, based on dress, mannerisms, body language, demeanor, and literally dozens of other small details. This process of reasoning and judgment is subtle, often subconscious—but it never stops—and it is the basis of words that work.
