Mom was right!

It’s always good to put a plug in for Mom. What is the stereotypical trio our mothers are usually credited with saying? “Sit up straight, keep your elbows off the table, and watch your language!” In the realm of first impressions, Mom was right! Let’s take them one at a time.

“Sit up straight!”

It may not be fair, but the truth is that people judge us on appearances.  Good posture, clean clothes, and pleasant facial expressions all contribute significantly to the way other people perceive us. Several months ago, my teenage daughter was applying for a job at a shoe store. As she wrapped up the interview, a young man walked into the store and announced that he, too, was there to apply. He was disheveled in appearance and leaned on everything – kind of draping himself on the counter as he spoke. Who do you think got the job?

“Keep your elbows off the table!”

Mom thought that sitting with your elbows on the table was rude. Perceptions of us are deeply affected by whether we approach others with polite manners and respect. This is especially important as we cross national and cultural borders where we might unwittingly offend those we speak to. Several years ago, my phone company kept screwing something up. In a fit of anger I called their toll-free support line and just about yelled into the phone, “This is the 12th time I’ve called and you still screwed this up! I’m so mad I could spit!” The gentleman on the other end of the phone said, “I’ll take care of you sir. Please hold.” I sat on hold for 15 minutes before I realized what he had done. I was out of line and he had truly “taken care of” me. I learned my lesson and have found telephone support folks to be much more cooperative when I am polite and respectful.

“Watch your language!”

Vulgar language is to be avoided, but I think this goes even deeper for our daily communications. Are you using language appropriate for your audience? Does everyone know the jargon and the acronyms? Not long ago, in a conversation with my Cable supplier, the fellow on the phone kept wanting to talk about a “multi-platform content delivery system.” I just wanted clear reception! It is important that we match the words we use to those who will be listening.

Thanks, Mom!