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ASSIGNMENT INSTRUCTIONS:
The challenge of the week: Talk with a friend or family member who has known you for a long time and will be honest with you. Have them answer the following questions.
What were your first impressions of me, or what type of first impressions do others have of me?
What does my face look like when I think no one is looking?
If you did not know me, based on my nonverbal communication, would you approach me? Why or why not?
After you have heard their answers, write a reflection on what you learned, making sure to answer the following questions.
Did what I learned to surprise me?
Was it easy to ask these questions and listen to the answers?
Based on this information, what do I need to work on so that people see me as a professional in the work environment?
HOW TO WORK ON THIS ASSIGNMENT (EXAMPLE ESSAY / DRAFT)
During this challenge, I talked to my sister, who has known me for a long time and is not afraid to be honest with me. She answered the questions in the prompt, and I was surprised by some of her responses.
My sister’s first impression of me was that I was quiet and reserved, but she also thought I was very intelligent. She said that other people might see me as unapproachable because I don’t smile or talk much when I’m around strangers. When she thinks of my face when I think no one is looking, she said I have a neutral expression, but my eyebrows are often furrowed like I’m deep in thought.
When I asked her if she would approach me based on my nonverbal communication, she said that it would depend on the situation. If she saw me in a professional setting, she would approach me because I look like someone who is focused and serious. However, if she saw me in a social setting, she might not approach me because I look unapproachable.
Learning about my sister’s perceptions of me was eye-opening. I had no idea that I came across as unapproachable to strangers. It was also surprising to hear that my neutral expression might make people think I’m not interested in talking to them. However, it was easy to ask these questions and listen to the answers because I trust my sister and I know she has my best interests at heart.
Based on this information, I need to work on being more aware of my facial expressions and body language, especially in social situations. I want to appear approachable and friendly to others, even if I’m not feeling particularly outgoing. I also need to practice smiling more often and making eye contact, so people know that I’m interested in what they have to say.
In a professional setting, I’m glad that my sister sees me as focused and serious. However, I want to make sure that I don’t come across as unapproachable, especially to new colleagues or clients. I need to work on being more friendly and approachable while still maintaining a professional demeanor.
Overall, this challenge was a great way to get feedback on how I come across to others. I learned a lot about how I can improve my nonverbal communication and be seen as a professional in the work environment.
Too Tired? Too Anxious? Need More Time? We’ve got your back.