MBTI & First Impressions
Introduction
People formulate a first impression within seconds, usually subconsciously. If you want to make a good first impression, it helps to get a more objective view of how others might interpret your behavior. Do you think that you are effective in expressing who you are? If not, you might find yourself often disagreeing with how others perceive you. First impressions are important because, when time is limited, they often determine whether a relationship continues. Do you think that you always form accurate first impressions of people? Did you miss a chance to connect with someone because of a faulty first impression?
Introverts
ISTP / INTP / ISFP / INFP might appear to be: cool (distant/boring), flexible (indecisive), individualistic (selfish), unpredictable (erratic), nonconforming (disrespectful), restless (noncommittal), slow to decide/act (lazy)
ISTJ / INTJ / ISFJ / INFJ might appear to be: reserved (cold/overserious), introspective (closed-off or self-absorbed), persevering (obsessive), controlled (inflexible), deferential but hard to convince (stubborn)
Extraverts
ESTJ / ENTJ / ESFJ / ENFJ might appear to be: assertive (hasty), energetic (busybody), confident (arrogant), charming (fake), conforming (bossy), talkative (blustery), conscientious (stuffy/stodgy)
ESTP / ENTP / ESFP / ENFP might appear to be: fast-moving (short attention span), energetic (hyperactive), adventurous (risky), informal (disrespectful), spontaneous (impulsive), uninhibited (no self-control)
Making A Good Impression
Atmosphere:
What is the social atmosphere: lively, measured, serious, solemn? Are you bringing down the energy level? Are you too serious when everyone else is being casual? Are you inappropriately energetic or too hyper? Are you too informal or carefree when others are being serious? Are you trying to control events or how others behave when everyone is laid-back? Is it an appropriate time to make jokes or speak out of turn?
Consulting:
Is the situation carefully planned or is it open to change? Do you let people know about your schedule or plans? Do you prepare people for your actions or decisions? Is it an appropriate time to ask questions or make suggestions, complaints, or criticisms out loud?
Connecting:
Are you putting people at ease? Are you giving enough attention and focus to others? Are you giving enough verbal or gestured feedback? Are you genuinely trying to get to know others? Are you showing appreciation? Are you showing enough emotion? Are you saying enough about yourself and your thought process? Are you accommodating people’s physical or emotional needs? Are you talking about subjects people are interested in discussing?
Communicating:
Are you listening attentively? Do you interrupt? Do you make an effort to be inclusive and sensitive to those who might require special accommodation? Do you respond in a condescending or dismissive tone when people express their opinion? Are you starting inappropriate or unwelcome arguments or debates with people? Do you handle negative feedback gracefully? Are you aware of what emotion your body language is expressing? Do you appear engaged/interested or visibly bored/uninterested?