Did you know that it only takes 5-7 seconds to make a first impression? Think about it, how easy is it to make the choice to smile and be happy? That’s the start of making a great first impression. A quick smile takes less than a second. You can get into a more detailed first impressions in the workplace. It only takes 5-7 seconds out of your day for each new person you meet! Let’s put that in a little more perspective: If you meet 20 new people in one day, your first impression time takes less than 2 minutes! These first impressions can stay with you for a long time so it is very important to be conscious of what can help make a first impression great. Here are three ideas that have worked really well for me:
1. Smile and be cheery. It’s very important for someone walking into your place of business to realize that the people who work there, really enjoy being there. That being said, don’t be cheesy with a fake smile and fake tone of voice. Every time you meet someone new, think about how you genuinely are glad to see them. After all, if it wasn’t for the customer, we wouldn’t have a job.
2. Maintain eye contact. Looking someone in the eye and keeping that eye contact helps them see you are genuine. Want an easy way to remember to look someone in the eye? Make it a goal to notice the eye color of everyone you meet. Be honestly interested in what people are saying. Be empathetic to people’s stories.
3. Dress for the occasion. Unprofessional outward appearance can hold us and the business we work for back. If we don’t look competent and professional at that first impression, we can negatively impact a new customers view of the business as a whole. Look the part of a confident, happy, smart professional.
First impressions are important in many situations, not just at work. You never know when you may meet someone at the grocery store who may walk into your place of business. If you made a negative first impression at the grocery store, it can follow you. Does this mean that you have to be “at work” all the time? Absolutely not. I suggest just practicing the golden rule: Treat others as you would want to be treated. It will reflect on you personally and can possibly translate into your professional life.
Nicki Dochniak
Clinic Coordinator
Isanti Physical Therapy
PTC_therapy March 10th, 2015
Posted In: General
