The First Impression

Hi PR Dolls! I hope you all are having a fabulous week!

Today's post is about the importance of first impressions, and some personal advice about how you can make an impact with a simple introduction.
First impressions really are important- they are what stick in some peoples' minds for the remainder of your relationship with them. I say some people because not everyone is the same, but odds are the way you present yourself initially is how you will be viewed from that point on. No pressure....

But actually, no pressure! In the field of PR where you are constantly meeting people and networking, you really need to find your groove with making a first impression- you'll be making a lot of them. Here are a few tips I've learned through making my own first introductions:

1) Make eye contact, and mind your posture.
 You would think this is a no-brainer, but you would be surprised how difficult it is! When you're speaking with someone (for the first time, or anytime) make sure you are giving them the attention they deserve by making eye contact. It shows them that you are actually listening, and makes them feel respected and that they are actually communicating with you instead of simply talking at you.  Plus, if you're talking to someone who is looking away/staring at something on your face it is actually muy awkward. I actually had a problem with this! I was listening, but something would catch my eye or I would just look away without thinking about it. I didn't realize how bad it looked until it happened to me, and let me tell you, it's not cute.
Also, pay attention to your posture. Don't slouch or tap your foot- anything that can distract from the words coming out of your mouth! You do not want to seem uncomfortable or fidgety- it will make you look nervous and unprofessional. Nobody wants to talk to someone like that, let alone possibly work with them.
Body language can help or hurt you- if you are too relaxed, you might come off as unprofessional or awkward. However if you are standing up straight, maintaining eye contact and engaged you will instantly look more confident on the outside even if you are terrified on the inside. So have your freakout, but don't let 'em see you sweat. General rule of life.

2) Actually be engaged in the conversation. For real. 
Eye contact is great, but not when your eyes are glazed over and your mind is clearly on the nearby bar/eye candy. Someone is taking the time to talk to you- treat their time with respect! Listen to what they are saying and hold a conversation. If you can't engage or contribute, make an excuse and get out of the conversation. It's better to not be there than to be a cold fish.

3) Your handshake brings all the boys to the yard. 
A handshake is another body language/confidence tool. A strong, assertive handshake shows people that you are bold and ready to take on the world. It sounds trivial, but it is true. On the other hand (haha) a weak handshake might show insecurity and discomfort. In PR, you not only have to have thick skin but you have to be able to compose yourself as a strong, confident contact.

4) Do your homework.
If you know that you'll be meeting someone important (an editor, journalist, celebrity, etc.- especially someone who you might work with) be sure to know a little bit about them! Research their work, their passions, little things- you might have something to connect with them about! Especially with social media today, you can get to know little things about people through their tweets, for example. Knowing something about them establishes a bond between you, and also makes you memorable! Kudos if you can name their favorite anything, or can make them laugh. :)

5) If at first you don't succeed....
It's important to know that not every introduction will be perfect or will lead to your intended goals, whatever they may be. Don't beat yourself over it! Just try to connect with them, and if it doesn't work out its okay- stay polite and move on. Also, don't vent to people about it at the event/any public forum. Odds are you're talking to their assistant, and not only did you not connect, but you burned that bridge. To. The. Ground.

*BONUS* If you are drunk, go home.
This is tricky because alcohol is usually provided at events, but a good PR girl knows when to stop. It is unacceptable to be drunk at an event you are working, but if you accidentally have to much, go home. Recovering from a bad first impression is one thing, but evaluating it later is only helpful if you remember it. Again, not cute.

I feel that first impressions in PR can be intimidating, but are extremely important. In this field, it is all about your social network and who you know. Hopefully these tips will help you with your first interactions and help you build your social network!

I would love to know your first impression tips- comment below or tweet me at @AyshaLBDPR!

xxx