The truth shall set you free
How we look, smell, talk and move, affects our influence with others; and these are the tough conversations I have had with clients in the past. Highlighting an individuals poor hygiene to informing a Director that they need to stop being emotional is not easy, however if certain personal issues are preventing progression they must be addressed.
Hurt feelings will pass, especially as influence and effectiveness increases.
It is about appearance, not physical attributes. Body type, gender or creed are not open for discussion, it is about making our physical presence welcoming to others. Cultivate a good hygiene routine, delay any alcohol, smoking and eating intake. Give people space to talk, think and interact with you.
Be presentable and approachable not regrettable
Top complaints about personal interactions I have heard include; coffee and alcohol breath, plus general poor oral hygiene. If we are in conversation people will look at our mouth; we don’t need a Hollywood smile just good oral hygiene, remember garbage in garbage out. Unkempt and stained clothing; attire does not need to be haut couture. cleaned, pressed and lint free is good enough.
Remember if it looks like we don’t care about ourself, people will believe we don’t care about them or their business
Eating & drinking at meetings & events. It is always risky when consuming at the best of times, when attempting to make good impressions and unless it’s a sit down meal, it may be worth avoiding food hazards such as drips and crumbs on clothes, food wedged in teeth and alcohol leading to poor performance. Often I will avoid food and drink during meetings and if necessary -and socially polite to do so – I will keep any consumption until the end.
This is not about abstinence, this is about reducing unpleasant visuals and memories in those we are looking to positively influence.
EGO – Edging Growth Out. This is the big one. My enthusiasm can be over bearing and desire to help can even be viewed as arrogance. However, what is important is that I recognise my good qualities – enthusiasm, insights & generosity etc – but I am also very aware of how they can be sabotaged by my approach and my ego wanting to be recognised for my skills and efforts, so I work at keeping this in check.
We all want recognition (EGO) but our audience also desires recognition (EGO). If we can satiate their EGO, we are far more likely to be effective and become valuable in their mind.
