Even when it’s irrelevant,
it lingers.
Anchoring Bias shows
how the first piece of information
sets a reference point.
A quiet example
A first salary offer sets your expectation.
Even better offers later feel “just okay.”
Not because you undervalue yourself—
but because anchors shape judgment.
Where this shows up
- In pricing
- In negotiations
- In opinions
First impressions
carry invisible weight.