Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are.
John Wooden
How do you think you are perceived at a first or even second meeting with someone, whether it is personal in a social setting or even more importantly perhaps at an audition or first meeting with a new coach or voice teacher, first rehearsal of a singing gig or interviewing for a job? First impressions are critical, as they determine whether you will have the opportunity to develop a stronger relationship. And remember, making a first impression is just that; you get to do it once and once only.
So, what are some of the appropriate steps to making this great first impression? How do you do it? How do you connect with a total stranger, make a great first impression and have them wanting to talk and work with you again?
STEPS FOR SUCCESS
As a singer/performer, the very first step to being successful is having an absolutely solid vocal foundation and technique. Without that, folks might like you as a person, but will not get hire you because you are not a consistent singer.
The second step is getting to know the person inside the singer. If you’re uncomfortable with yourself, because you aren’t sure who you are on the inside, it’s hard to be consistent and confident on the outside. So, start this process by writing down your answers to the queries I am purposing here.
Define who you are: what are your purpose, passion, gifts, strengths, qualities, and accomplishments. Who are you really from the inside out? What are your core beliefs that keep you from crossing over that imaginary line in the sand? What are your inner values that give you courage and strength to say no when something feels really wrong and uncomfortable?
Create your own mission statement: this then becomes the touch stone for helping you make choices of any kind because you can measure your choices against your mission statement to see if they are congruent. This statement also shines forth from the inside and becomes very clear to others without your having to say anything, because they can see, hear and feel your values and intentions through your words and behavior. For you it is a short concise sentence that easily comes to mind that includes your purpose and passion that you then can depend on when making choices throughout your life’s journey.
Clarify what you want: state your intentions in getting noticed, known and connected. Why is it important to you? What do you hope to gain; what do you have to offer?
Identify who you want to connect with: Choose who you want to reach and try to learn that persons needs and goals. Understand something about them outside their industry; spend time getting to know them as the individual person. This will make them seem more human when you actually connect in person.
Define your environment: think about your own needs and values, those that you would like fulfilled, including how you work best, the type of people you want to work with, and the physical environment you are seeking.
Develop your marketing statement: this tells others who you are, what you do and how you do it. Your statement should condense your key skills, experience and achievements into a few short phrases, with a strong focus on what you are offering, what needs you are filling. When complete, it will feel right to say and your passion will ignite when you are saying it – even if you are shy!
Develop outstanding communication skills: Conversational skills project your personality, show your sincerity, and help people feel comfortable with you, and you with them. Keep abreast of what’s happening in the world, read great books, listen to all kinds of music, understand different cuisines and cultures, etc. to help give you the confidence to enter into almost any conversation. And above all, communication is a two way street. You also have to have amazing listening skills so you learn to listen to what is being said, and not just get caught up in the drama of how it is being said.
Create and define your image: You must not only make your exterior appealing to your target audience, but also make it a genuine reflection of your inner self. If you feel confident on the inside, you will be more confident on the outside.
It’s all in the journey! And it’s your journey, so make it work for you. But be honest with yourself in knowing where you are physically, mentally, spiritually, and psychologically. Take a good look around on the inside to find the authentic, unique and honest YOU! And get comfortable with that person. Avanti!
