One of the most important parts of being in the workforce is making good first impressions to those you meet in professional capacities. Whether you are a new employee at a company or you are meeting important people at a networking event, you’ll need to make a fantastic first impression. While there are many little nuances at play in a first impression, it can be easy to remember how to behave if you follow a few basic philosophies. Keep these ideas in the back of your mind and you’ll likely make a good first impression.
In professional situations, especially when networking, it can be tempting to think about how people will help you in the future. But the best way to network with others is to focus on giving before taking. When you offer someone help, don’t think about what they can do for you just yet. Be kind, and then one day people will reward you. There are several other small mannerisms that you can take into account when trying to be selfless. For example, when you meet someone, make sure to act as if you are truly honored by the introduction. Truly polite people will do this no matter how important they are.
The introduction is just the beginning of a professional interaction. The most important thing to remember in these situations is to take social cues from others. Never call someone a name that they did not ask to be called. Just because one person who is close friends with the person calls them a nickname doesn’t mean you have a right to call them that nickname. In addition, be wary of physical interaction. Aside from handshakes, you should allow other people to establish touch guidelines. In fact, the most polite people will not make any physical contact besides shaking hands and hugging a person back when they are hugged. It is important to treat people with excessive respect.
The idea of treating people with more respect comes from the general philosophy of staying humble. When you’re new in a company, you should try and just be happy with what you have. When you’ve just started a new position, this is not the right time to start asking for a raise. You should have negotiated a fair schedule, salary, and other benefits before you accepted the position in the first place. Don’t ask for any upgrades to your office equipment within the first few days of the job. Work with what the company provides unless you have particular ADA issues that need accommodation.
Another important part of staying humble is thinking about what you say and why you’re saying it. Do not say things just for the greater glory of yourself. If you’re speaking about something that feels really good to share, but there is no room for the other person to add value, then you’re likely just saying this to pat yourself on the back. Make sure not to humblebrag, and always ask questions that value another person’s knowledge or expertise.
Lastly, stay positive. In line with remaining humble is taking the high road in all situations. Do not get involved in workplace gossip. If people hear you talking badly about others, they will assume you are talking badly about them behind their backs, too. To be truly polite and professional, don’t even listen to gossip. Excuse yourself from conversation when you hear it. Similarly, don’t talk badly about your past employers. This will make you look bad and could even hamper future opportunities.
It can be tough to navigate professional interactions, but as long as you stay humble and positive, you’ll be on the right track. Put others before yourself and follow the social cues of others, and you’ll be on the track to building strong professional relationships.
from David Bishop Media | Executive Coaching and Leadership Expertise https://ift.tt/1Zjr7Tz
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