Appearance
That first impression on the first day, especially your appearance and non verbals really sets the tone.
Hi Pat,
Very interesting on how your name change has created more questions and greetings. This to me demonstrates the level of respect students are giving you plus the rapport they have with you. Keep smiling and enjoying your new found name tag and respect.
Gary
As a more "mature" faculty I find best not to look intimidating, smile more than I did as younger faculty-seems to be working along with name change - "Ms. J" instead of "Pat". Questions and greeting have increaded with new tag. :-) Ms. J
I definietly agree that appearance is everything. The dress attire you wear puts your students into the frame mind of their careers. I think it gives them more drive to be in their career, and yo being in that field and presenting the attire and teaching the class puts them one step closer to their goal.
I feel they are excited, and admire you and, of course, one day want to be in your shoes.
Hi Thomas,
I agree with your response. Instructors need to greet their students with a smile and let them know they are welcome in the class. Adult learners are in need of encouragement if they have been out of the classroom for a period of time. Anything we can do to make them comfortable and focused on learning we should do.
Gary
Some instructors have told me that it's a good idea not to smile on the first day. But, for adult learners, this tactic is wrong. Instructors should be in the classroom before the students arrive and start getting to know them right away. Being open and friendly--but, of course, not their buddy--will go a long way at establishing your accessibility to them.
Hi Laura,
Thanks for sharing this great example of how something simple can reflect a major change in perception. Good strategy. This expanded respect will enable you to focus more on your students as you have already enhanced their respect for you through these changes.
Gary
I have recently started dressing and styling my hair in a more professional manner and I've noticed a huge change in my students' attitude towards me. While my students have always had a favorable opinion of me, the level of respect I get from new and old students is staggering!
Hi KarriAnn,
Great balance you have between your professional experience and leadership of the class. You are also displaying your interpersonal skills by developing respect and rapport with your students.
Gary
I am a rather young instructor so at times gaining respect from my students can be challenging. Therefore, appearance is everything. I dress very professional at all times while I am on the campus even if I am not in the classroom. Also, during the introductions I take the time to "prove" myself. I am not grandiose or pompous, however I do let the students know my extended education and work experience. At the same time, I am not ashamed to say I do not know something, but will get back to them with the correct answer.
Absolutely. Enter the classroom with a confident and caring attitude, the students will pick up on that. Wear the attire that becomes someone in the professional field. Students pick up on the nonverbals, and facial expressions.
The first impression of the apprerance of the instructors sets the tone and expectation of the students. They see how the instructor presents themselves and that sets a tone for the course.
