How to make a memorable virtual first impression

The most important thing I do when stepping into any space in which I will need to connect with new people is to find a standout item to set me apart from others. A unique piece that is slightly different from the norm, yet one that makes a big first impression? so that those who have never met me won’t forget. Sometimes, the piece is subtle, depending on the audience and the situation. Other times it is obnoxious, knocking you over the head with its sparkle and shine, that you not only will never forget, but will also certainly have a strong opinion about.?

Let me share a few of my favorite items to give you a small idea about what I am talking about

Confetti Sunglasses I wear these bad boys everywhere. And have received countless comments from literally every type of human on the planet. From the elderly lady in line at Chick-Fil-A, to the young adult bell captain at a resort hotel, to the moms at after school pick up, to the best friends of my husband, to the 6 year olds in my daughter’s Kindergarten class. These glasses speak to my bright and fun personality, without saying a word. AND they allow me to start an instant conversation with all kinds of people by telling them where I found them and why I love them. ( Instagram ad for $35)

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Sparkle Sneakers These just make me happy. And you know when something makes you happy it shows in all the ways? Well, these do that for me every time I slip them on. First off, they are beyond comfy, which can be hard to find in a fun shoe. And then, they SHINE. And do I mean SHINE. This isn’t paint on glitter or a few random rhinestones. NOPE! These shoes collect the light and reflect it back out for all to see and experience. Bedazzled 200 percent! These are certainly my go tos when on stage presenting, but also when I need to add a dash of fun to something conservative. They can be hidden under a desk or a table, so as not to cause too much of a ruckus, but they are seen immediately upon entry or exit and will definitely cause a reaction and conversation. THANK YOU Betsey Johnson Clothing

Big Fuzzy Coat I am always cold. Even in Charleston, South Carolina. So when the temperatures dip below 70 degrees, I need a coat. And one that is warm and fuzzy. Several decades ago (sigh! I still find it impossible to believe I now have multiple decades under my belt), I found this glorious soft white number from BeBe (is that even still a place?!). And, since this was my carefree youth, anything larger than a $20 purchase was a statement piece. So, I knew I needed warmth and I knew I needed pizazz and low and behold, I found this glorious coat. Much like my confetti sunglasses of today, the coat was a crowd pleaser, regardless of age and demographics. Everybody commented. And I wore that thing until it was threadbare. So, when it was finally more ratty than flashy, I brought it to the Goodwill (and maybe said a few parting words) and then began the hunt for its replacement.

And 塔吉特百货 , as is often the case, did not disappoint. I found an extra fuzzy, mauve pink sister to the BeBe coat of yore. I will readily admit, she is the pink headed step child who I am trying to love just as much as the first version, but she does the trick in the same way. Warmth and comfort combined with a statement and fun.

But what about props for my virtual presence? I certainly can’t wear sunglasses in every call or show off sparkle shoes in a Zoom. So I have a few (actually I have lots, but there are my faves) that add the pop to my meetings.?

Neon Rainbow My now 15 year old daughter gave this to me on my birthday a few years back. Everyone who knows me knows I am the queen of sunshine and rainbows. And she saw this on 亚马逊 and knew I had to have it. It can sit, relatively undetected behind my desk, so when in a virtual meeting that needs to be as distraction free as possible, she is hidden.?

BUT, technology is so amazing!, I got me one of those plugs that allow you to turn things off and on from your phone, so when the moment is right, I can instantly light her up to bring smiles and joy to any virtual space. She is also a fun prop to use and hold when doing recordings. To show your passion and excitement for whatever it is you are pitching through a neon glow. Or, just to make the person on the other side of the virtual space smile.?

Sunshine Wallpaper For fifteen years, the walls in my office were the only walls in my entire home that were the same color they were when we moved in. They were a DARK, and I mean DARK, blue and the ceiling was gold. And while blue is my favorite color, the room remained dismal and uninspiring whenever I entered it. And I spent more time in this room, than any other room in my entire home, due to my remote work, yet I kept it as is for years. It wasn’t until we did a downstairs renovation that I decided enough was enough. I designed a custom wallpaper at Love vs. Design that was all me and guaranteed a fun background for the wall behind my desk. I spray painted my desk and accessories bright yellow and I painted the other walls and ceiling white. So now, my background never needs to be blurred, because it is certainly a point of conversation and one that perfectly shows who I am.?

A lighter A fun accessory to emphasize emotion is oh so important virtually.The lighter actually happened on accident when lighting a candle while on camera many years ago, and it was so appropriate in the moment, it has become my go to when excited, inspired, frustrated or fired up to visually and symbolically show my mood. It serves the purpose of adding to the vibe while bringing connection to those in which I work. Now, a lighter may be slightly dangerous (!!!) so maybe pick something like a child’s magic wand, a stuffed animal that brings you comfort and inspiration, or a coffee mug that sparks conversation. Anything to shine up your virtual personality and make you memorable.

And if you don’t want to be too bold or too brazen, go for subtle but unique, such as….

Tapestry Earrings I have a dangling pair of white earrings that are not at all flashy (in my mind) or stand out ish. And yet, every time I wear them, I receive commentary. I have no idea why, but I do know they have led to conversations in Times Square, Disney Springs, Charleston, and virtually. So, when I want to blend in but still know there is potential to make connections and a statement, I chose these. Plus, they go with everything!

Or a unique tumbler

Or a fun notebook

Or a t-shirt with a memorable saying or pattern

It doesn’t matter if you are a wallflower or the center of the room. Having something that draws people to you and makes them remember you is not only crucial to your own personal journey, it is crucial to driving change, as you are building connections with those that may one day support you. So, find something that is all you and wear it loud and proud anywhere and everyone. Make it your signature style and statement and then see where it takes you. I promise it will be worth it!