How to Recover from a Bad First Impression

You never get a second chance to make a first impression. But if you’ve flubbed with a new coworker or potential vendor or client, fear not. You have the chance to make an even better second impression. Here are some tips that can help you recover and build a business relationship:

Understand first impressions. People often won’t realize if there’s an explanation for your initial impression. Perhaps you just got a parking ticket, your child woke up with strep throat or a technology outage at work disrupted everything. Things happen to everyone.

Circle back and explain yourself. Most people want to be fair and will give you a second chance, especially if you give them a good reason. A well-timed call or email to explain why you were having “one of those days” can break the ice, showing you’re human as well as humble. Everybody has off days, and admitting it will usually be seen as a strength as long as off days don’t become frequent and laden with excuses.

Play a role in their success. Clearly demonstrate how you can enhance their work or world. Seek out assignments and opportunities that put you directly in their path, and where you’ll be able to show your value. You could also share a great idea that’s benefitted you.

Up your performance and sustain it. If you’ve been pigeonholed for a certain behavior, outperform that perceived behavior and make it the norm.

Please feel free to pass these helpful tips along to your team, clients and colleagues.

Sources: Business Insider, Harvard Business Review