Communicating Effectively - First Impressions Mon 23 Oct 06

Although I didn't really want to talk about dress codes and first impressions, it so happens that while doing some research I came across Jon Emmons blog "Life after Coffee" and in particular an entry entitled "Dress Code, Etiquette And Cultural Guidelines".

This was shortly after an earlier post where I mentioned that Mark Miller of Strategies for Success, Inc. had stated "Your mother was right; you only have one chance to make a first impression.  What she did not tell you is that you only have 15 seconds to do it."  The importance of first impressions is that they set the credibility level for your communications and how well they will be received .Mark explained that much of what creates this first impression is your physical presence.  That is, like it or not, dress, grooming, posture and attitude.

Jon Emmons refers to the Dress Code, Etiquette Requirements and Cross-Cultural Guidelines at Burleson Consulting.  Donald Burleson reinforces the effect of first impressions made by these factors and he does it in a very humorous and memorable way. It is well worth a look.  While you may take exception to these codes Mr. Burleson is quite emphatic that the codes are set by his clients.  Personally, I think there is a lot of practical wisdom in what he says.  Take a look. 

• Dress Code
• Etiquette Requirements
• Cross-Cultural Guidelines