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E
very relationship - whether personal or business - starts
with a first impression. The right body language and
conversation takes just seconds to set the stage for a
winning impression.
Body Language
Before words are said, your body says a lot. A full, firm
handshake and good standing posture shows confidence.
Steady, relaxed eye contact shows interest and says you
are listening. Try to avoid staring too long, as to make
others uncomfortable. A sincere smile also breaks the ice
and expresses a relaxed confidence. Imagine how important
this is for a job interview or a first date. Leaning
slightly toward the speaker is inviting and shows that
you are involved in the conversation. Nod your head to
show understanding. "Research has found 80 percent
of what you 'say' is in your body language," says
Diane Paul-Brown, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, of the American
Speech-Language-Hearing Association.
Verbal Language
Start a conversation with a simple question to get the
words flowing. Asking questions gives the other person an
opportunity to contribute his or her thoughts. This
positions you as a good listener. Say something nice
about someone. Imagine how important a positive,
interested attitude is at a party or in a new job.
Remember that a conversation involves more than one
person. Be concise and do not monopolize the
conversation. "Your audience will think more highly
of your communication skills-and of you," when
conversation is kept short, says Paul-Brown.
Key Factors to Making a Favorable First
Impression
Your appearance
- good personal hygiene
- simple clothing
- clean, sharp, and ironed
- coordinated
- solid, neutral colors
- limited accessories
Your smile
- relaxed and sincere
- slightly open
- use all face muscles
Eye contact
- steady
- relaxed
- about 5 seconds
Your handshake
- dry
- firm
- maintain eye contact
What to Avoid Doing
- playing with your hair
- crossing your arms
- fidgeting, foot tapping
- touching your face
- using meaningless hand gestures
For free information about speech, language and hearing,
call ASHA's Action Center at 1-800-638-TALK (8255) or
visit ASHA's website at
www.asha.org
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Communication disorders affect
approximately 42 million Americans. Of these, 28
million have a hearing loss and 14 million have a
speech or language disorder.
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Audiologists are
hearing health care professionals who specialize in
preventing, identifying and assessing hearing disorders
as well as providing audiologic treatment including
hearing aids and other assistive listening
devices.
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Speech-language pathologists are
the professionals who identify, assess, and treat
speech and language problems including swallowing
disorders.
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ASHA is
the national, professional, scientific, and
credentialing association for more than 120,000
audiologists, speech-language pathologists, and speech,
language, and hearing scientists.
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