Tip #6: You Have Seven Seconds to Make an Impression
Ready. Set. Oh, man…you’re out of time.
A couple of years ago, Forbes released an article titled, “You and Your Business Haven 7 Seconds to Make a First Impression: Here’s How to Succeed.” The title alone caused me to pause and ponder for about ten seconds. Many of my first impressions have involved sweaty handshakes, stuttering introductions, and all too often, the embarrassment of spinach or other greenery nested in my teeth. And those are just the issues with my person…what have I communicated about my organization?
The Forbes article provides some great insights on managing the high-level variables of first interactions across several touchpoints, i.e. website, storefront, etc. It is worth the read. For the next three weeks, we’ll focus on one tip at a time that will help with interpersonal connections and networking.
This week’s tip is the most challenging as it could possibly disrupt your status quo and possibly change your organization’s culture. That said, it is the most important.
Slow your roll. Schedule yourself so that your day and interactions allow for smiles, waves, new meetings, and unplanned interactions. What if everyone you interacted with felt like you had time for them? How many new connections are you missing due to your pace? What does your urgency communicate to donors, your team, clients, and volunteers? Stress, rushing, and distraction will show on your face, and they will rob you of the confidence and more positive emotions you wish to demonstrate. Slow your roll…it’ll be worth it.
Is networking one of your goals for 2020? Join us at the upcoming Intro to DO MORE GOOD event where we’ll be featuring a networking training by Sara Barco. Tickets are free but going fast!
– Katie Appold
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