You all know how excited I get when someone is interested in this relevant and important topic! Gian Marco of Hawk Talk, the Hillsborough College’s Film and Media Major, asked many great questions. He was well prepared for the interview. All great ways to make a powerful first impression. The topic was about Virtual Etiquette, How to Make a Positive Impression on Zoom, and all the other video conferencing tools.

I enjoy sharing knowledge with college students and young professionals because it’s rewarding and meaningful. They have a genuine and sincere interest in learning about business etiquette and first impressions to help make them more successful as they prepare to graduate, secure their first internship, land their first job, or achieve their first promotion. They truly care about their success and learning how to stand out in a positive way to pave the way for a rewarding future.

Here’s Gian’s interview – I hope you enjoy reading this and receive great value from our interview together!

Q: Why is etiquette so important?

A: Etiquette is important because it demonstrates respect. Respect for oneself and respect for others. The bottom line is that etiquette impacts our ability to create a productive atmosphere, gives us confidence, and improves our social and people skills. We can all benefit from this practice, no matter what stage we find ourselves in our career or life.

Q: What are the most important things to do or remember on a Zoom or virtual call?

A: Make a powerful first impression! In-person, someone decides whether they like you or not in seven seconds. New data suggests this happens even quicker in virtual meetings and videos. Since first impressions are so immediate, focusing on how to make a positive one is more important than ever. 60% is based on appearance, 30% on body language, and 10% on what you say. Since so many of us work from home, we have the added pressure to ensure our surroundings, offices, desks, and/or dining room tables reflect a positive image as they are now part of our first impressions. In our work with students and clients, we find that this has created additional pressure and stress. The struggle with Zoom meetings is real and so relatable right now.

Q: How do these skills help me in the classroom and work?

A: I promise you with absolute certainty that if you focus on making a positive first impression and developing your people and social skills, you will experience greater rewards in all that you do. You will make more money, get that promotion, or land your first job. Let me be an example. I did not have the most education, an MBA, as most of my business colleagues did. I credit my success to making a positive first impression and honing my people and soft skills. According to studies, 85% of your success on the job is your people and social skills. Not your technical skills and knowledge. The achievements I continue to enjoy reflects this exactly as the Harvard and Stanford study demonstrates. It’s all about developing confidence and professionalism and improving your communication ability.

I’m so thankful to Gian Marco for raising awareness and for his interest in this topic. Virtual Etiquette is a topic near and dear to my heart and one I talk about in The Power of First Impressions Course, too.

Virtual Etiquette is a skill set that is essential to achieving your goals! However, all of us need assistance from others more than once in our life to support us so we can be our best. If you are unsure where to start, I’d love to connect with you to help you achieve your personal and professional goals. Reach out to find out how we can work together via my contact page today!

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