5 Ways to Bounce Back from a Poor First Impression
‘First impression is usually the last impression’ is what they say. Well, there’s no denying the fact that first impressions leave a long-lasting impact on the minds of people you meet – whether it is at a job interview, a prospective business client or an investor or even when you are on a first date. First impressions are usually quick and powerful and hence, it might be a little difficult to change a bad first impression.
However, it's not impossible. It just takes a little extra effort from your end to revoke a bad impression. But first you need to identify whether the effort is worth it or not. Sometimes, it just happens that two mindsets are not inclined towards the same direction and sometimes it’s just not worth it.
So, if you feel there is a bad first impression that you want to rectify and bounce back, here is what you should keep in mind while you are at it:
1. Apologize
When you do realize that the first meeting hasn’t gone too well or not as well as you had hoped it would, apologize. And sincerely at that. Sometimes, the easiest way to go about correcting a wrong first impression is to apologize and be straight-forward. Ask for a second chance. There is no harm in admitting that you feel the meeting went off on a wrong note and you would like to start all over again.
Nothing can work in your favor as much an honest confession and an apology.
2. Pivot
One of the best approaches to bouncing back from a bad impression is to ‘pivot’. This simply means demonstrating a different side to your personality. A side more favorable in revoking the poor first impression. It can help reshape the perception of your character and value to a great extent when you demonstrate a different and a more favorable side of your personality.
3. Be Consistent
Bouncing back from a poor first impression will require some consistent efforts from your side. It will not happen overnight, but with the passage of time and as you demonstrate sincerity in your efforts and different aspects of your personality are seen, things will change. Hence, be consistent in your efforts if bouncing back from a poor impression is what you really have decided to act upon.
4. Be Patient
It usually takes 8 encounters to change an individual’s perception of you. Hence, it is essential that you remain patient. Allow the concerned individual time while you continue with your efforts to change his perception. Do not force it.
5. Accept That You Cannot Please Everyone
No matter how sincerely you try, sometimes certain individuals just do not want to give others a second chance. This has nothing to do with your character or value. It is just how they function. In such cases, it’s best to leave it at that with a sincere apology and move on.
Making a good first impression is important, but that shouldn’t be your only goal when you meet someone for the first time. Be yourself and be genuine. That’s all that matters in the end.
