Don't let a bad first impression bring you down
What should you do when you failed to make a good first impression? Is there still a way to turn things around or are you doomed to suffer the consequences forever? While making a good first impression [3] is very important, you can still pick up the pieces and redeem yourself after making a bad first impression by following these simple tips.
How to Recover from a Bad First Impression
Re-evaluate your appearance. Studies show that first impressions are made within the first 7 to 17 seconds of meeting someone and a good part of it (about 55%) is based on how you present yourself to the world. Considering the extremely crucial role your physical appearance plays in making a good first impression, it is equally important that you dress for success [4]. So, whether you are about to go to a job interview or are scheduled to meet new clients, make sure you look as professional as possible. That's the only way to do it right.
Keep your body language in check. Your body language can likewise make or break your career so start practicing a little more eye contact and smile a little bit more often. It will help you enhance your personal aura and make you look more inviting.
Own up to your mistake. It is very important that you apologize immediately as soon as you realize that you have committed a mistake. Remember, last impressions are just as equally lasting as the first so make sure that you leave a positive note as you part ways.
Be sincere. Half-hearted apologies are not enough. You need to be sincere, realize how your actions have affected the other person and commit never to make the same mistake in the future.
Avoid overdoing it. Apologizing for your mistakes is a commendable move, but over-apologizing can do more harm than good. It will only put the other person in a more uncomfortable situation and may damage the image you would like to project. So, apologize, mean it and move forward.
Try a little humor. Under certain circumstances, a little self-deprecating humor can help you recover. Just make sure you don't overdo it or make anyone feel uncomfortable.
Be honest. Being late for a meeting is bad enough but making up stories just to cover up for your shortcomings can seriously ruin your credibility. When you run into such situations, the best thing for you to do is to be honest why you haven't made it on time and apologize for any inconveniences it caused the other person.
Redeeming yourself after a bad first impression is very much possible – if you know how to do it right.