Whether you are starting a new job, starting in a new management position or simply going for an interview, you never get a second chance to make a first impression.
“Either consciously or unconsciously, people make judgements about the proficiency, character and competence of others based on their first impressions. Just as you evaluate prospective business partners, employees and personal acquaintances on your first encounter with them, others will judge you by how you project yourself,” says Neville De Lucia, new business development director at Dale Carnegie Training.
“First impressions are often lasting. Each time a new person meets you, that person takes just 10 seconds to form a whole list of impressions, beliefs or assumptions about who you are and what you are about.”
Dale Carnegie’s offers some tips on how to make a good – and lasting – impression in 2016.
* Take an interest in others’ interests: People are self-interested as a matter of human nature, so they want to hear about things that they care about. Show interest by asking questions about them and their views. This way you are engaging them and learning about them too.
* Smile, especially when you are meeting someone for the first time: It’s not necessary to show your teeth, just a meaningful smile will do. When seeking influence that leads to positive change, there is no side-stepping the door of healthy human relations.
* Listen for longer: The power of listening can change hearts and minds. You are giving people what they most desire – to be heard and understood. Make a point of listening intently when being spoken to as listening can garner great respect. Leave others a little better
We all know the benefits of setting big goals but if you only focus on big pay-offs, you will overlook the small opportunities that make the biggest difference. Small picture thinking is the foundation of leaving others a little better. Whether it is opening a door, offering to make tea or carrying someone’s laptop, performing these small gestures are what will set you out from the rest and ensure you leave a lasting impression and create a connection that is considerate and positive, the type of connection that makes others feel better about their relationship with you.
“These tips taken out of Dale Carnegie’s famous book How To Win Friends And Influence People, may be obvious, but it is often these simple gestures that are most effective,” says De Lucia.
CAPE TIMES