First Impressions of a Leader by Dr. Matthew Arau

It’s the start of the school year, and we have the chance to begin anew with a fresh, blank slate. Every time we meet someone or welcome a new class of students, we make a first impression. First impressions matter and they often stick well beyond the initial meeting. What do people look for in a leader in a first encounter? What characteristics should a leader exhibit and exemplify to make a positive first impression?

Here are 5 Leadership Tips to make a positive first impression.

1. Care. Show you sincerely care about those in your care. Rather than focusing on yourself, shine the light on those you lead.  
2. Authentic. Be real, genuine, and honest with those you lead. People are tired of fakes, fronts, and frauds, and they crave authentic leaders who are human; imperfections and all.
3. Communicate. Clearly communicate your excitement, gratitude, and enthusiasm with vibrant energy in your voice and eyes, an open, confident posture, and uniting language that emphasize “we/us” rather than “I/me.”
4. Collaborate. Engage and empower others in conversation, decision-making, and goal setting. Leaders don’t go it alone. We move farther together.
5. Purpose. People respect leaders who are driven by a purpose and mission to make a positive impact, rather than leaders who are in it for themselves. Stay true to your sense of purpose.

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