No one knows you’re a fool until you tell them you
are!!
Ever met someone at first glance who seemed
intelligent, polished, and well put together only to discover when they opened
their mouth they contradict everything you once believed to be true of them? Of
course you have, we've all had this experience a time or two in our
lives. So, how do we avoid being the person I just spoke of? Easy, YOU
are the foremost authority on YOU and what YOU want others think of YOU!
Which means the first impression is yours
to create! How do you create a dynamic first impression you might ask?
Start by looking the part! Appearance can
be everything! Being well groomed and polished tells others you care about
yourself and take pride in what others see in you. When introducing yourself,
ask for names and repeat the person’s name back to them. This lets the person
know you heard them and can pronounce their name correctly, which gives you a
chance to store it in your memory by repeating it out loud (continue to use the
person's name throughout the encounter as well to sharpen your recall).
Next, maintain good eye contact. This tells
a person you are engaged in the interaction and interested in what they have to
say. Following the conversation to the tee while providing appropriate feedback
based on what the person said (backtracking – repeating what is said to you the
way it’s said let’s someone know you’re listening) not what you think their
trying to say. Never assume you know what someone is “trying to say” always
assume they’re saying exactly what they want you to hear. Furthermore, speak on
topics you are knowledgeable of and comfortable discussing with others. In
doing so, you will be confident when exchanging information and your passions
and strengths will come shining through.
WARNING: NO BIG SELF-DISCLOSURES! At
initial meeting you should not be telling someone your deepest, darkest
secrets. Some things greatly impact the way others view you before they ever
get to know you. Keep it simple. If you create a great first impression, there
will be plenty of time to expand their knowledge of whom you are in the future.
And last but not least, always leave them
laughing! A good and appropriate light-hearted joke (something that doesn’t
offend the person/persons you are speaking with) can seal any deal in a minute!
Everyone loves a good laugh! A great joke says you have a sense of humor, know
how to lighten the mood, and most of all when to be yourself!! If you follow
these few simple tips, you should nail your first impression . . . the first
time!! That way you leave an encounter shining like a prince/princess and not
looking like the town fool! Good journey!!
For more How to make a Great First
Impression tips visit:
http://whatyourbodysays.com/premier-tips/how-to-make-a-great-first-impression/
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