What is Impression Management?
Impression management is the art and science of consciously presenting oneself in a manner that is most likely to leave the best impression possible.
Impression management means becoming more conscious of the likely consequences of our words and actions.
Each time we meet people, we leave an impression in their minds - either a positive, neutral, or negative impression.
The impression you leave is not "the real you", but it is dependent on what you say and do. Or sometimes, what you FAIL to say and do.
Why are impressions important?
Impressions count because once an impression is formed, it colours perceptions.
Once we have made up our mind about someone, then we tend to engage in a process of selective perception; meaning that we will tend to gather supporting evidence, to justify the original impression.
For instance, if upon meeting someone, you form a BAD first impression, based on something a person said or did, then you'll tend to notice more supporting evidence to justify your original first impression.
On the other hand, if you originally form a GOOD first impression of someone, then you'll tend to see additional good things they do, and you may even excuse some errors.
How can we leave the right impression?
Since we are in control of what we say and do, we can influence the result.
You don't have to be a bad person to leave a bad impression.
The only thing that is necessary to leave a bad impression is carelessness.
A careless joke, a careless whisper, careless swearing, or a thoughtless act.
Even table manners and the way some people eat, can be off-putting.
Leaving a bad impression is not malicious, people mean no harm, but harm is done because of a careless, insensitive or thoughtless act.
Impression management means becoming more conscious of the likely consequences of our words and actions.
We want to do and say only those things that add value.
"You never get a second chance to make a good first impression." Will Rogers
Impression management
In business, impression management is the practice of choosing your words, actions and signals on purpose so that others form the view you want. It runs before and during every meeting, needs you to stay aware of how each move is read, and its aim is to guide the story people tell about you.
CG4D Definition
Context: Business
Genus: Practice
- Uses deliberate control of words, actions and appearance
- Seeks to shape other people's view of the person
- Operates at every social or digital interaction
- Relies on conscious awareness of the likely effects of behaviour
Article Summary
Impression management is not trickery; it is the mindful choice of words, actions and small details that guide how others see you. Because people fix their view of you in seconds and then seek proof to support it, each meeting, email or video call is a chance to earn trust or lose it. Plan, act with respect, avoid careless slips, and you shape the story told about you.