I'm about the same I like to introduce myself and give them some information about myself, my career, and how I became an instructor
Smile and say hello and listen to what they need
We stand at the entrance every morning and evening waiting for the students to come in. We welcome them in with a smile and "hello" every day. We hope this makes a good impression and makes them feel welcome.
I need to remind myself not to be so caught up in my own schedule or work challenges, especially when I am in public space and not my office, smile and be more open then, John
Following through and being that first impression also shows the student that you are who you portrait yourself to be. Acting one way and then being another, shows them they can't trust you and they're less likely to believe/buy in to other things you say.
To make a better first impression amongst students, it is good to greet them with a smile and ask then how they are doing. One should take some time to talk with them and get to know them. One should ask questions that relate to where the student is from, what type of interests they have or what compelled them to enroll in school. This gives the student the impression that the staff member cares and are invested in their success.
As an administrator, I don't interact with all students daily. To make a good first impression, I make sure that I keep my office organized and my desk neat. That way if a student comes to my office, there are no distractions. I make sure to put my phone on do not disturb, not answer calls, or be distracted by incoming emails while talking to a student. This practice helps the student to know that he or she is important to me and to feel confident that I will listen and follow up.
I always enjoy meeting new students for the first time. Sometimes they are very tense and do not know what to expect from me as their new instructor. I try to think of a professional way to make them laugh or smile as soon as possible. I think that is a really good ice breaker that puts them at ease and opens them up to being more engaged in the class.
Cristela,
We get to make a new first impression each class meeting. That is why the start of the day is so important.
Jeffrey Schillinger
First impression is everything. The impression we make on people forms their thoughts on us and the establishment we work at. If we are having a bad day and come off a little unfriendly to a customer or student, then that impression will probably be long lasting and they will feel unwelcomed and unsatisfied. Honestly, I think that a person makes their first impression on appearance alone. I believe that carrying oneself with confidence and wearing a big smile is the best way to make a great, lasting first impression. Also, making sure your work area is clean and organized.
Tracy,
Many colleges require faculty members to attend orientation. Itn is nice to see thst you do it voluntarily.
Jeffrey Schillinger
I always attend the first orientation of new students. This is not a requirement, but my own elective. I greet them with a smile and a handshake and try to learn their names so i can greet them in the hall when i see them between classes.
Although my class is not until block 4, I want to attend the orientation to make a good first impression with the students. I want them to know i care about them; that they are now a part of a bigger family; and that i am looking forward to seeing them in my class in the future.
This can help them visualize themselves in my class which means they have achieved success in the first three blocks.
Megan,
Humor is a great learning device as we remember more when learning is linked to an emotion.
Jeffrey Schillinger
I always use humor to help break the ice in a new classroom setting. If they think I am always perfect, it would be challenging throughout the semester to live up to that standard, so if I tell them in a first impression that I am just like them just funnier. It works every time.
Wendy,
We get to make a new "first impression" every class meeting. That usually happens before the lesson ever starts.
Jeffrey Schillinger
I think I just need to remember this all of the time. Sometimes we get sucked into the daily work or chores that may bring us down and forget that the first impression is important and is only a few seconds long. This can also help with retention and helping students know that you are there to help and encourage them.
I tend to make a great first impression and keeping true to that I radiate with Passion for what I do. Have a big belly of a laugh and try to always have a smile on my face
Jose,
I was once told that every day we get a chance to make a new first impression. Keep smiling. It will help set the mood.
Jeffrey Schillinger
A big friendly smile usually works. I also try to break the ice with a little joke in that first few seconds so that we can ease into conversation about business.
Christine,
We used to kid about pizza being the number one retention tool for career colleges. Cookies my be second. Little things like this are keys to establishing an appreciative attitude toward students.
Jeffrey Schillinger
