Established, since 1997, leading UK based training provider.
Celebrating 25 years in business! CPD Member - The CPD Certification Service ilm Recognised Provider

What is Impression Management?

What is Impression Management?

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

About the Author: Chris Farmer

Chris

Chris Farmer is the founder of the Corporate Coach Group and has many years’ experience in training leaders and managers, in both the public and private sectors, to achieve their organisational goals, especially during tough economic times. He is also well aware of the disciplines and problems associated with running a business.

Over the years, Chris has designed and delivered thousands of training programmes and has coached and motivated many management teams, groups and individuals. His training programmes are both structured and clear, designed to help delegates organise their thinking and, wherever necessary, to improve their techniques and skills.

Blogs by Email

Do you want to receive an email whenever we post a new blog? The blogs contain article 5-10 minutes long - ideal for reading during your coffee break!

Further Reading in Personal Effectiveness

  • How to Decide
    Decisions, decisions! We are faced with them every day. From what to eat, to whether we should change jobs. Instead of keep going over the reasons in your head, use this great method to make your decisions easier.
    Read Article >
  • Self-Control
    Be the master of your own destiny. You need to master yourself before you can master a situation. Therefore you need self-control. Your success is dependent on two things: everything you do, and everything you say.
    Read Article >
  • Don't be afraid to ask for help
    Asking for help is not a sign of failure or weakness. On the contrary, the ability to ask for help and to avail oneself of the combined brainpower of the team is a sign of maturity, intelligence and power.
    Read Article >
  • Better Emotional Intelligence Training
    Emotional intelligence training is intended to help you understand why people do the things they do, as well as handling negative emotions in yourself and others.
    Read Article >
  • How to make the most of your journey to work
    Commuting to work can be tedious and mind-numbingly boring. So, we have put together some suggestions on how you can make the most of your down time stuck in traffic, or waiting for the train. Use your down time to improve yourself.
    Read Article >

Looking for Personal Development Training?

If you're looking to develop your Personal Effectiveness Skills, you may find this Personal Development Training Course beneficial:

Open Training Course Pricing and Availability

21 - 22 May
London - Central
£900 +VAT
3 - 4 June
Online - Teams
£900 +VAT
4 - 5 June
Manchester City
£900 +VAT
Course Full
16 - 17 June
Bristol (Filton)
£900 +VAT
Course Full
More dates and locations available
Save £100 on this course

Next Open Course Starts in 3 days, London - Central, places available Book Now >