What you look like - your overall appearance, facial expressions, age, gender and body language - compose a good part of the total message you present to another person at your first meeting, far more than what you say, or how well you perform. First impressions are very important, and are generally hard to change. What do you first notice about someone else? Choose an image that will enhance or complement the image that your company presents to clients. Fit in. Focus more sharply on who you really are; don't project an artificial image.
Wear similar clothes to those in whose steps you want to tread. Dress to blend in. Always be neat. Clothing, hairstyle and accessories are all important. Let your work stand out, not your fashion. Ask trusted friends or family how they see you.
A broad, friendly smile puts across an image of trust. Look people directly in the eye. Become aware of how other people's facial expressions affect you.
Judge the amount of space with which the other person feels comfortable - this depends on the person and the situation. Standing too close makes people feel uncomfortable; only do it if you need to assert yourself. Continually backing away, however, makes you seem afraid or untrustworthy.
Your posture and bearing tells others how you feel about yourself, and that tells your boss if you can advance. An erect, relaxed bearing promises confidence and competence. Nervous habits. such as finger drumming, shows nervousness or lack of confidence.
Plan around the effects of gender, age or skin colour. Try to counter stereotyping by concentrating on the above factors. Younger workers should stress their past successes; older people could emphasise their fresh approaches to problem solving. Tape your voice at times of relaxation and stress. Check for speed, loudness, pitch, tone, articulation, monotony, nasality and shrillness, and correct if necessary. The car you drive also makes an impression.
© Sue Nethercott 2001. May be freely used for personal career planning, and passed on unabridged, with attribution.Back to top Back to Career Marketing Menu Home
© 2001. Copyright Sue Nethercott.