UNIT 1. FIRST IMPRESSIONS

                    

 

STARTING POINT

Task 1▐ Discuss the questions.

 

·     Why are the first impressions so important in business?

·     What gives us a first impression of a company or a person?

·     When you want to know more about other companies, colleagues or clients before you meet them where do you normally start looking?

 

READING

Task 2▐ Read the article about first impressions.

 

The Power Of First Impressions:

5 Tips That Can Impact Your Business

 

By Stephanie (Stifel) Coughlan, Forbes

 

In our fast-paced world of business, first impressions can make or break crucial opportunities. Whether you’re meeting a potential client, networking with industry professionals or interviewing a candidate for a job, the impression you convey in those initial moments sets the tone for your future interactions. Understanding the dynamics of first impressions and how to wield them effectively can significantly impact your success in business.

1. Master the art of nonverbal communication.

Did you know that eye contact increases trustworthiness? Indeed, research suggests that up to 55% of communication is conveyed through body language. Maintaining appropriate eye contact can enhance perceptions of credibility and reliability. Additionally, smiling is often said to be the first thing anyone notices during an encounter, so let your genuine smile shine through to create a welcoming atmosphere.

2. Pay attention to body language.

Your posture can speak volumes about your level of interest and engagement. Bad posture can send a strong message of disinterest, while standing tall and maintaining an open posture may convey confidence and attentiveness. A firm handshake can also exude confidence and warmth, leaving a positive impression.

3. Harness the power of verbal communication.

While nonverbal cues play the most significant role in forming first impressions, verbal communication is important. While only 7% form the impression based on what you say, it’s even more important how you say it. On top of this, 38% of the message’s individuals communicate face-to-face are noted through how someone speaks. Pay attention to your tone, pace and clarity of speech to ensure your message is conveyed effectively. Consider mirroring the other person’s communication style to establish rapport and build trust.

4. Elevate your wardrobe details.

Your wardrobe speaks volumes about your professionalism and attention to detail. In addition to specific clothing choices, grooming, fit and proportion play crucial roles in shaping people’s first impressions. Simple details like neat hair, clean nails and well-fitted attire can speak volumes about our professionalism and attention to detail. When our clothing fits just right and flatters our body’s proportions, it not only boosts our confidence but also sends a message of competence and reliability.

Remember, every detail counts when leaving a positive impression on your audience. Personal grooming, including your hair, nails and skincare and attention to wardrobe details, all contribute to the overall impression you convey. Investing in high-quality, well-fitted clothing can significantly elevate your appearance and even boost your confidence, further enhancing the impression you make.

5. Understand the power of color.

Colors can evoke emotion and convey messages, making them a powerful tool in shaping perceptions. Consider the message you want to convey when selecting your attire. For example, blue exudes trustworthiness, while red signifies power and passion. Choose colors that align with your personal brand and the message you wish to convey, as they can significantly influence how you are perceived by others.

Conclusion

First impressions are formed in less than a tenth of a second and are challenging to change. By mastering the art of nonverbal and verbal communication, paying attention to body language, elevating your wardrobe details, and understanding the power of color, you can enhance your ability to make positive and lasting impressions that drive success in your professional endeavors.

Remember, you only get one chance to make a first impression. Make it count.

 

Task 3▐ Read the article again and answer the questions.

1. Which of the following is the most important factor in forming a positive first impression, according to the passage?

A. Clothing choices

B. Tone of voice

C. Body language

D. Verbal communication

 

2. The article suggests that paying attention to body language can convey a sense of:

A. Disinterest

B. Arrogance

C. Confidence and attentiveness

D. Unreliability

 

3. What percentage of communication is conveyed through how someone speaks?

A. 7%

B. 25%

C. 38%

D. 55%

 

4. Which colour is said to signify power and passion?

A. Blue

B. Red

C. Green

D. Yellow

 

5. How quickly are first impressions formed?

A. 1 second

B. 5 seconds

C. 10 seconds

D. Less than a tenth of a second

 

6. Which of the following is not mentioned as a way to enhance a positive first impression, according to the passage?

A. Maintaining eye contact

B. Mirroring the other person’s communication style

C. Wearing well-fitted clothing

D. Discussing your personal life

 

7. What percentage of the impression is formed based on what you say?

A. 7%

B. 25%

C. 38%

D. 55%

 

VOCABULARY

Task 4▐ Fill in the blanks with the correct words.

1)                In a business setting, __________ is crucial as it demonstrates respect for the other person's time. 2)                A firm __________ can convey confidence and set the tone for a positive interaction. 3)                The way you dress, or your __________, can significantly impact how others perceive you. 4)                Your __________ should reflect confidence and attentiveness, helping to build trust. 5)                Non-verbal cues, such as __________, play a significant role in how your message is received. 6)                Maintaining good __________ shows that you are engaged and interested in the conversation. 7)                Effective __________ involves not just speaking, but also listening and responding appropriately. 8)                Demonstrating __________ through your actions and speech can leave a lasting positive impression. 9)                Your overall __________, including your facial expressions and posture, affects how others view you. 10)           A well-prepared __________ can showcase your expertise and leave a strong impression on your audience.

a)                 attire b)                communication c)                 confidence d)                handshake e)                 punctuality f)                  body language g)                eye contact h)                professionalism i)                  demeanor j)                  presentation

Task 5▐ Match each idiom with its correct meaning.

         Idioms:

1)      Leave a lasting impression

2)      Break the ice

3)      Judge a book by its cover

4)      Come across as

5)      Hit it off

6)      Make a good impression

7)      Get off on the wrong foot

8)      Stand out from the crowd

9)      Make a splash

10)  Strike a chord

Meanings:

a. To evoke a positive emotional response.

b. To have a significant and memorable effect.

c. To quickly become friendly with someone.

d. To seem to be a particular type of person.

e. To begin a relationship or interaction badly.

f. To make an assumption based on appearance.

g. To be noticeably different from others.

h. To create a positive initial impact.

i. To attract a lot of attention and be very successful.

j. To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social setting.

 

Task 6▐ Fill in the blanks with the appropriate idiom from the list above.

1.   At the networking event, Sarah tried to __________ by telling a funny story.

2.   Even though he was nervous, John managed to __________ during his job interview.

3.   They __________ right away and decided to collaborate on the project.

4.   First impressions are important; you want to __________ on your first day at work.

5.   Unfortunately, they __________, and their partnership never really took off.

6.   It’s important not to __________; someone’s true qualities might not be immediately visible.

7.   Her unique style and confidence made her __________ at the fashion show.

8.   The keynote speaker managed to __________ with the audience and received a standing ovation.

9.   He didn’t just make a good impression; he managed to __________ that will benefit his career.

10.            The new product launch really __________, and the company saw an immediate boost in sales.

 

GRAMMAR USE ▐ Word Formation

Word formation involves creating new words from base words by adding prefixes, suffixes, or combining words. In business English, word formation is essential for expanding vocabulary and accurately describing various business concepts. Here are some common methods of word formation:

Prefixes: Added to the beginning of a word to change its meaning.

Re-: Again (e.g., reapply, reorganize)

Pre-: Before (e.g., preapprove, predict)

Un-: Not (e.g., unnecessary, unavailable)

Co-: Together (e.g., collaborate, cooperate)

Suffixes: Added to the end of a word to change its form (often its part of speech).

-tion: Forms nouns from verbs (e.g., negotiate → negotiation)

-ment: Forms nouns from verbs (e.g., manage → management)

-ly: Forms adverbs from adjectives (e.g., quick → quickly)

-able: Forms adjectives from verbs (e.g., rely → reliable)

Compounding: Combining two or more words to form a new word.

Business plan, email, workplace

Conversion: Changing the word class without changing the form.

Update (noun) → update (verb)

 

Task 7▐ Transform the given base words by adding appropriate prefixes, suffixes, or forming compound words as needed.

1.        The CEO decided to ______ (organize) the company structure.

2.        Our team needs to ______ (evaluate) the project's progress.

3.        The new software will increase our ______ (efficient).

4.        We need to submit the ______ (propose) by Friday.

5.        The manager provided ______ (construct) feedback.

6.        The deadline for the project is ______ (realistic).

7.        We aim to improve customer ______ (satisfy).

8.        It's important to ______ (regular) update our records.

9.        The report should be as ______ (comprehend) as possible.

10.   They had to ______ (coordinate) with the other departments.

VIDEO   Task 8▐ Watch the video about 10 Things that Immediately Destroy a First Impression [https://drive.google.com/file/d/1h3hDVaeoGnXS8gYQtQcuCSH1nWKJEbwY/view?usp=drive_link] and choose the correct answer.

 

1. According to the video, which of the following is NOT considered a common mistake that can ruin a first impression?

A. Discussing sensitive topics like politics or religion

B. Maintaining eye contact

C. Checking your phone frequently

D. Asking personal questions

 

2. What does the video suggest is the best approach when someone has a different opinion from you?

A. Try to convince them that your opinion is correct

B. Avoid discussing the topic altogether

C. Understand that people can have different perspectives

D. Politely state your opinion and move on

 

3. What does the video say a weak handshake is often associated with?

A. Lack of confidence

B. Professionalism

C. Interest in the other person

D. Nervousness

 

4. What is the primary purpose of the video transcript?

A. To provide advice on job interview preparation

B. To discuss the importance of first impressions

C. To highlight common mistakes that can ruin a first impression

D. To explain the process of getting hired

 

5. Which of the following is NOT identified in the video as a mistake that can destroy a first impression?

A. Making distracting noises

B. Dressing professionally

C. Chewing gum

D. Looking at someone from head to toe

 

6. According to the video, how quickly can a manager decide whether to hire a candidate?

A. Within 7 seconds

B. Within 30 seconds

C. Within 1 minute

D. Within 1 hour

 

7. Why does the video suggest maintaining eye contact is important when making a first impression?

A. It shows confidence and interest in the other person

B. It allows you to read their body language

C. It helps you remember their name

D. It makes the other person uncomfortable

 

SCENARIO ANALYSIS

Task 9▐ Read the following scenario and answer the questions.

Scenario: Ann has a business meeting with a potential client. She arrives 15 minutes early, dressed in a professional suit. She greets the client with a firm handshake, maintains eye contact, and listens attentively. During the meeting, she presents her ideas clearly and responds to questions confidently.

Questions:

1.   How did Ann demonstrate punctuality?

2.   What aspects of Ann’s attire contributed to her professional image?

3.   Why is maintaining eye contact important in this scenario?

4.   How did Ann’s body language contribute to a positive impression?

5.   What elements of communication did Ann use effectively during the meeting?

 

WRITING

Task 10 ▐ Write a list of practical recommendations (150-200 words) for making a strong first impression in a business setting.