First impressions count—especially when seeking a job. How many times have you met someone new and was “turned off” by either their handshake, eye contact or lack thereof, choice of words, their lack of grooming, or their insistence on texting while meeting you?
How to meet and greet people is an important social skill. As evidenced by the people who we have come into contact without such skills, we should not assume that all students have mastered it, especially when seeking a job. Help students by explicitly teaching them the skills that will help them make a good first impression.
Here are some examples:
- Arrive on time, dress appropriately, and demonstrate good posture while sitting and standing (e.g., no slouching).
- Greet everyone appropriately, including support staff. This includes making eye contact, smiling confidently, shaking hands firmly, and waiting for direction.
For more information, check out Job-Related Social Skills.