Image and First Impressions

1. Image and First Impressions “You never get a second chance to make a positive FIRST impression!”

2. Activity 1 • Using a pen or pencil: • Write down the names of two people who you think make good first impressions. • Why? Include things like how they act, dress, talk and walk. Anything else you think of.

3. Making a Good First Impression • In just under ten seconds— • enough time to read the first few lines of an email • Glance at a profile • Extend your hand and offer a friendly “hello” • Someone is forming a first and lasting impression of you. Is it a good one?

4. Within 30 Seconds They’ve. . . • Judged your economic and educational levels • Judged your social position • Judged your levels of sophistication and success. • Based purely on what they see • Your wardrobe • Your hairstyle • Your smile and posture

5. After About Four Minutes They’ve… • Decided your • Trustworthiness, compassion, reliability, • Intelligence, capability, humility • Friendliness and confidence • And by now you’ve spoken, so they’ve also judged • How your voice sounds • The content of what you say • How you say it

6. First Impressions Count • Packaging IS important • We think what looks attractive or reliable from the outside must surely be on the inside. • We judge books by their covers • We buy houses based upon curb appeal • We take people at face value • AND THEY DO THE SAME TO US!

7. Activity 2 • In a group of two or three • List attributes leading to a positive impression • List attributes leading to a negative impression. • Assign someone to write these down • Assign someone to report back your findings

8. Attributes for a Positive Impression • Sense of humor • Confidence • Appropriate body language • Ability to make a good conversation • Kindness • Have a proper handshake • Be on time • Be well-groomed

9. Attributes Leading to a Negative First Impression • Self-centered • Closed minded and judgmental • Lack of manners • Immature • Lack of integrity • Whining and complaining • Poor grooming habits • Inappropriately dressed • Indecisive/without an opinion • Poor conversational ability

10. Ten Steps to Total Image Confidence • Define the image you want/need for your work and personal life. • What is appropriate and gives the right message for the situation? • What styles appeal to you? • Take time to care for your clothing and shoes • Find out the BEST colors for you

11. Ten Steps to Total Image Confidence • Take a closet and accessory inventory. • BEFORE buying more clothing, determine your body type and the styles of clothing that flatter your figure. • Determine your clothing budget and divide it among business, casual and save at least 30% for accessories.

12. Ten Steps to Total Image Confidence • Inventory your skin care and cosmetics. • Use cosmetics that harmonize with your own natural coloration • Allow yourself 15-30 minutes a day to develop the image you want to have. • Learn to love yourself and believe in yourself.

13. Remember. . . “In all things, success depends upon preparation, and without such preparation, there is sure to be failure”

14. All You Have to do Is. . . • Decide on Who Your Audience will be • Determine your objectives • Make choices that match the audience’s expectations • Dress • Behave • Communicate • In the expected way

15. Remember your ABC’s • Appearance • Behavior • Communication