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Lasting
Impressions
"We were very
satisfied with the
first impressions seminar. The presenter was fully qualified,
enthusiastic, and knowledgeable about the subject matter."
Participants from
(Richmond) City University
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"The
Etiquette
Advantage" is a
free online publication from1st Impressions,
Inc. It is geared for those who want to enhance their
self-confidence, heighten their communication skills, and outclass
their competition.
This free subscription publication should come to you only if you have
requested it or because you have a pre-existing relationship with Patricia
Whitaker or
her business, 1st
Impressions, Inc.
Visit us on the web at www.1stimpressionsonline.com
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Do you sit and stare at the wall in a waiting room or elevator? Cringe when you have go to events where you do not know anyone? If so, you are not alone. Most people would rather do almost anything rather than actually have to go up to someone they have never met before and strike up a conversation! Meeting people for the first time can be a very daunting task, but it need not be the case.
Here are a few tips to improve your small talk skills:
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Be the first to say "Hello!" Always smile and shake hands when you meet anyone.
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Introduce yourself. Provide your full name and relation to the host or event.
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Maintain eye contact. Many people often allow their eyes to stray - and even look for the next conversation partner - while the other person is talking. People don't feel listened to if you're not looking at them. If you no longer wish to talk to the person, tactfully end the conversation.
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Ask open-ended questions that will lead to further discussion. Focus on the other person, not trying to impress them with your knowledge and verbal ability. Listen more than you speak.
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Act excited about what the other person is talking about by providing encouraging verbal feedback.
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Be prepared. Always have three great questions in mind for any event. They will come in handy when you find yourself in the middle of an awkward moment like seated at a table of eight where people are playing with their food.
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Don't disappear from conversations. Make a positive impression by shaking hands and saying goodbye as you leave.
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The ability to talk easily with anyone is a learned skill, not a personality trait. Learning this will help you develop rapport with people and leave an impression that lasts longer than exchanging business cards. Remember, small talk can lead to big talk, which can lead to great conversations and opportunities.
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Quote for the Month
"The most basic and powerful way to connect to another person is to listen. Just listen. Perhaps the most important thing we ever give each other is our attention.... A loving silence often has far more power to heal and to connect than the most well-intentioned words." ~ Rachel Naomi Remen
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Make Note of It
"Small
Talk Skills" workshops available November 20th and 27th
For more information or to register,
visit the Chesterfield Adult
Education website (select "course catalog and go to page 7) or call 804-768-6140.
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1st Impressions, Inc. offers a variety
of customized
workshops
and private consultations for businessowners, employees, and
individuals on professional presence,
business protocol, effective communication, interviewing skills and
dining etiquette. A unique program designed especially for
teens, Skills 4 Success, is
also highly recommended.
1st Impressions, Inc. provides the
polished finishing touches that help you project a lasting impression
of power, poise, confidence and professionalism.
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If you would like to subscribe to "The
Etiquette
Advantage" E-Tips,
please complete the information below:
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©
2003-2007 1st Impressions, Inc. All rights reserved.
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