The First Impression
Human beings form a "First Impression" in 2 to 5 seconds. How can you make a better first impression with your students?
First impressions are so important in any situation. Not only do I try and make some immediate connection with the student (commonalities - where they live, what their interests are, etc), but I also instill the importance of this in their future professions in health care.
Defiantly by eye contact and saying the persons name so that they know I am giving them 100% of my full attention
Smile, that is the best first impression.
Some people come to our office a little lost, shy, not sure of what to say or ask, but with a smile you can melt the ice and make them feel welcome.
At our school we often see the new student before they start classes. I make sure that they know I am friendly and approachable so that when they are actively attending class they know that I am here to support them.
You can make a better first impression by making eye contact and having a warm welcoming smile. Our Front Desk Receptionist also asks about their commute to the school and offers tea or water as part of her usual greeting to any visitor or applicants to the school.
Marcia
Always remember on how you would like to be greeted. We all know that a smile and a simple hello can go a long way.
The best way to make a great first impression to be open and smile and share things about yourself when asking students to share with you.
Focusing attention on each and every student as they enter the school and greet them with a smile and "welcome, we're so happy to have you join us".
I think a smile goes a long way. Also your greeting must have passion. Look at the person and really mean it. If you just greet and keep going without really caring, it shows.
Smiling always create nice 1st impresssions.
Just remember to smile and be natural. It puts people at ease.
Wendy,
What are a few of your most effective icebreakers?
Jeffrey Schillinger
A big smile and a great icebreaker.
This is so true. IT's important to make sure you leave your personal business at the door and be "present" when meeting and greeting students. One of the things I know about myself is that when I am very focused I can look "mad". To be aware of this , I make sure to smile and greet every student in the hallway as I pass by. It has truly enabled me to develop relationships with our students and appear more approachable.
Thanks for this post, Jeff. What are some of the things you do on other days to keep up the welcoming attitude you describe here?
Jeffrey Schillinger
On the first day of class I make a point of greeting everyone at the door and welcoming them to the class. Once everyone is seated we introduce ourselves and I make a point of mentioning that I was a student once in the same class at the very same school.
Nice post, Amy. I know far too many teachers who equate being mean and strict as setting high standards and being professional. Being mean just means you are mean. Being professional does not preclude one from being nice and engaging in appropriate humor.
Jeffrey Schillinger
Michael,
It is helpful to talk about your struggles to set the expectation that you know where the students are coming from.
Jeffrey Schillinger
I believe that it is important for the instructor to be professional, yet also be approachable. A big smile and a little bit of humor, along with encouragement can help the new students to feel more comfortable about starting their journey.
