First
Impressions in School, the Business World
and Life in General
You get one chance to make
a first impression. A negative one based
on a direct exchange is hard to reverse
but even more difficult if based on third
party testimony. Be aware of how you present
yourself to maintain your credibility and
reputation.
Setting
Your
environment has a lot to do with what and
how you make a favorable first impression.
After all if you interview
with a panel for a scholarship, do not expect
immediate feedback. Chances are that you
will have to do most of the talking. In
dialogue, you have the benefit of studying
your audience.
Who Is Your Audience?
Examine And Listen
In a conversation with
another individual, your first few words
will shape their initial impression. Opposites
may attract in relationships and business,
but it can turn some people off.
Common Ground
Initial contact should
be based on some common ground. People may
not like a complete replica, but they also
do not want someone to argue about everything
from a to z.
Marketing Yourself
Selling
yourself is about discreet boasting
and leaving people wanting more.
Be Yourself
A positive first impression
based on a false pretence will come back
to haunt you. If you like and claim to be
a marine biologist, architect or latex salesmen,
in time you will be caught with your pants
down.
Dress To Impress
Whether
right or wrong, clothing is an important
part of the first impression equation. While
no need for an Armani suit, it is necessary
to have at least one good business suit
while you are in Business School.
Close Shave (for
the male reader)
Nobody wants to shave every
day, but it is important for the first impression
and overall image.
Speak Clear
Ration your words. Never
divulge unnecessary information. Always
say as little as possible to convey your
message. Being verbose will make your audience
lose interest and confuse them.
Remember Names
Always remember names.
Everyone wants to be remembered and recognized
– especially when they just told you
their name! A simple trick is to use it
in the conversation so as not to forget
it later on.
Jokers Beware
Having
a sense of humor is important, but being
serious is more important in a corporate
setting. If people wanted to laugh, they
would ask for a comedy routine and not a
business presentation.
Introduce Others
When the time comes to
end the conversation and walk away, a good
trick is to introduce someone to the person.
This does not leave them hanging and shows
that you are established and connected.
Leave an Impact!
Whatever
you do, stand
out. Do not be shy to impress but do
not show off either.
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