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 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
-
Happy at Work
Your organisation runs best when employees are working in cooperative, happy teams. Teams that possess a "positive mental attitude" are happier and more productive.
Read Article > -
The Benefits of Following a Good Exercise Programme
Irrespective of who you are, your situation would be better if you improved your physical health. And your health will be improved by the right exercise programme.
Read Article > -
How to feel great everyday
The words you use have the power to change how you feel, both in positive and negative ways. Find out how important it is to use the right words, to make yourself feel great everyday and enable you to perform even better.
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 > -
From Information to Wisdom - Four Layers of Understanding
We are surrounded by information, but not all of it is useful. To truly understand and make sense of the world, we must break through four layers: Information, Knowledge, Understanding, and Wisdom.
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
Next Open Course Starts in 23 days, Online - Teams, places available