Unforgettable
Much has been discussed and published, regarding first impressions. Depending on which theory, or study you believe, consensus tells us that first impressions occur in the first 30 seconds to 2 minutes of a meeting. The theory being, that someone will develop an impression of the person they are encountering, in this relatively short period of time. Some of the actions that are observed and hence first impressions, are as follows:
Body language-are you slouched over giving the impression of being timid, or have a lack of confidence. Or do you stand tall, with a confident air about you. Do you have good eye contact, or are your eyes darting about giving another impression of lack of confidence, or arrogance. Is your handshake solid, or limp. Again, this may revert back to a confidence issue.
Do you act interested in the person you are meeting and what they are saying? Do you engage and take the conversation to the next level, by asking about their work, where they live, hobbies and interests, or family. Or, do you take the complete opposite and nod your head, thinking about you are going to say.
Eye contact, was mentioned in point number one, but needs some further expansion. There is nothing more disrespectful than not looking a person in the eye, when speaking to them. This would apply to anytime you are in a conversation, but very important, upon a first meeting. Everyone, loves to have the person who you are speaking to, look them in the eye. It has been said, ”eyes are the windows to the soul” If this is true, you want your eyes to be vibrant, open and used as a valuable communication tool. Thru the words you say and your eyes, you want to make the other person feel validated and that what they are saying matters. You always want to be an active listener, engaged and responding with comments and questions, to make the conversation, a true, ”two way street”
When you first meet someone new, what does your physical make-up say about you. Not, if you are attractive, average looking, or plain looking. It is more about the make-up of your hair, for females that their make-up is in place and that your clothing is clean and reasonably pressed. Maybe appearance should not matter, but the reality is, it does! Being well put together gives off a confident air, that makes others take notice of you and says something about how you handle your life.
In the end, do you want to be unforgettable, or forgettable? If you are unforgettable, you engage with active listening. You make the person you just met, feel important and interesting. If you are forgettable, you will never be remembered by the person you just met. You missed out on a golden opportunity to meet a new friend, business contact, or future co-worker. Nat King Cole, in his hit song, “Unforgettable”, is recognizing all of the unforgettable people in life. People who with a little compassion and interest become the positive first impressions we all have a chance to engage with.
