FACE IMPRESSION MANAGEMENT
IMPRESSION MANAGEMENT
Impression management is a conscious or subconscious process in which
people attempt to influence the perceptions of other people about a person,
object or event. They do so by regulating and controlling information in
social interaction. It was first conceptualized by Erving Goffman in 1959.
The foundation and the defining principles of impression management were created by Erving
Goffman. An example of impression management theory in play is in sports such as soccer. At
an important game, a player would want to showcase themselves in the best light possible,
because there are college recruiters watching. This person would have the flashiest pair of cleats
and try and perform their best to show off their skills. Their main goal may be to impress the
college recruiters in a way that maximizes their chances of being chosen for a college team rather
than winning the game.
Impression management is usually used synonymously with self-presentation, in which a person
tries to influence the perception of their image. The notion of impression management was first
applied in face-to-face communication, but then was applied to computer-mediated
communication. Also this concept was applied into different field of study from academic
research in the field of psychology and sociology to practical fields such as corporate
communication and media. There are many methods behind self-presentation, including self
disclosure (identifying what makes you "you" to another person), managing appearances (trying
to fit in), ingratiation, aligning actions (making one's actions seem appealing or understandable),
and alter-casting (imposing identities on other people). These self-presentation methods can also
be used on the corporate level as impression management.
Managing our impression is one of the important things of life, as it leads to benefit us in both
ways professionally and personally Managing impression appropriately not only aids one in
leaving a lasting impression on others, but it also helps in attaining desired results successfully.
Impression management has considerable implications in all the aspects of life in which you
have a need to give others your overall impression as good. It doesn’t just help to give an
impression, but it leads to develop your personality accordingly.
Impression Management Use and Effectiveness in Employment Interviews
Almost every organization uses an interview for making employment decisions. Hiring
managers, and others conducting interviews are well aware of interviewee use of “impression
management” – applicants’ attempts to create a favorable impression. Some typical examples of
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FACE IMPRESSION MANAGEMENT
impression management during interviews include verbal self-promotion (“I’m a very hard
worker”), adjustment of non-verbal behaviors (smiling, welcoming body posture), and “looking
the part” (wearing professional clothing).
We all try to impress others – to put our best foot forward, to try to be a witty
conversationalist, and to get people to like us. Impression management is very important in the
development and maintenance of social relationships, and it is critically important to
effectiveness as a leader. But success in social relationships and success as a leader requires a
delicate balance of impression management. We need to monitor and control how we appear to
others, but we also want to be straightforward and “authentic.”
Here are some guidelines for how to manage the impression you make on others in an authentic
way:
Know Thyself. Self-awareness is critically important in successful impression management and
in being an authentic person. Sociologist Erving Goffman proposed a “dramaturgical theory” that
stated that we are actually just a conglomeration of the different roles that we play. It is very
important, however, to have a sense of self -- Who are you? What do you value? What do you
stand for? – to avoid becoming just a “social chameleon” who simply tries to fit in and go along
with the crowd.
Be Thoughtful and Prudent. We need to engage our brains when interacting with others. We
must be effective listeners, trying to understand others’ points of view. We need to think about
the consequences of our statements and our actions. Self-disclosure is an important part of
forming a good relationship with others, but we need to be careful to not disclose too much
information too fast, and always consider how the other person is reacting to what we tell them.
Master Your Emotions. Nothing creates a negative impression faster than an inappropriate
emotional outburst. Emotions are important in connecting with others, but we need to regulate
and moderate our emotions and our emotional displays. Negative affect – anger, irritation,
disgust – should always be displayed carefully and strategically. For leaders, it is critically
important to show emotional restraint, but to subtly let others know when you are pleased or
displeased.
Observe Rules of Etiquette. There are a range of social rules, or “norms” that tell us how we
should behave in various social situations. To maintain a positive impression, it is critical to
follow these social norms and demonstrate that we have manners and know how to behave in
different situations. Being polite is always a good impression management strategy.
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FACE IMPRESSION MANAGEMENT
Have Courage and Conviction. There are times when you need to be socially bold and
courageous. Take the initiative to start up a conversation with a stranger, to ask a good question,
or to aid someone in distress. In addition, it is important to stand up for principles that you
believe in, particularly in positions of leadership. Most people will respect you for being true to
your convictions.
Be Positive. There is a wealth of research that supports the importance of positive affect in
making good impressions. A smile and positive energy is always better than a negative tone.
Leaders who are optimistic and display positive affect are rated as more effective by their
followers.
Effective and authentic impression management is not easy. Like all social skills, it is
something that needs to be developed and practiced continually.
Types of Impression Management:
There are 2 types of Impression Management which are logically defined.
1. Constructive Impression Management:
Here the Impression Management is mainly based on the physical appearances. It helps in the
formation of self identity.
For e.g. dressing, appearance, makeup, hairstyle, etc.
2. Strategic Impression Management:
Here the Impression Management is based on the communication and body language. It helps in
the attainment of some interpersonal skills and goals.
For e.g. handshaking, formal hug, verbal and non verbal communications, etc.
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