3 Ways to Recover from a Bad First Impression
Is it possible to recover from a bad first impression? It can be done, but it takes some effort.
In most cases, a first impression is based on how we appear to someone else. But a first impression can also be based on how we are perceived in a phone conversation, text, or email. Regardless of the method, first impressions are made within only forty milliseconds but can stick to you for a lifetime.
As a photographer, I mostly deal with this from a visual perspective. I think it's of supreme importance to look confident, trustworthy, professional, and represent the best of the best in their field in order to deliver a knock out first impression. Your first impression is the doorway to infinite possibilities. It's what gives you the golden opportunity to learn about what people need and for you to tell them how you can expertly resolve their issues.
But what if your first impression didn't go as planned? Research show that if you take no action to turn things around, it takes a long term relationship to repair it. But there are steps you can take to make a quick recovery.
- Ask for their opinion and show that you're actively listen to what they have to say. People feel respected and valued when you listen to them.
- Ask them open ended questions that that allow them to educate you on a specific topic related to their needs, React thoughtfully, encouraging them to provide you with even more information.
- If things really went sideways, immediately apologize and ask for their permission to start over. Most people will be receptive to this and give you a chance to redeem yourself. Many times you won't change their feelings about you. But at least this gives you a chance to salvage the beginnings of your relationship.
Your first impression has a huge impact on your ability to get hired or even increase revenue for your business. Unfortunately, most people and businesses shy away from professional photography. Either they don't set it as adding value or they have a fear of getting in front of the camera and that can have a negative impact on client engagement. If this sounds like you, take some time to review ALL your public facing images. Compare them to the photos used by others in your industry. That should give you a good idea as to whether or not you need to up your visual game.
Charlie Cotugno is a Seattle based commercial, performance, and privately commissioned photographer with clients ranging from individuals to Fortune 500 companies. He is also a sought after speaker on the topic of leveraging photography for career advancement and marketing success. To learn how Charlie can guide you through your visual imaging process, visit www.CotugnoPhoto.com, email [email protected], or call/text 425.501.9725.