First Impressions

"You never get a second chance to make a first impression" Anon

We are all aware of the saying, "never judge a book by its cover" and to some degree it offers a contradiction to the quote that headlines this article. However, the first meeting, either verbal or visual, a person makes upon someone else has the potential to leave a permanent impression.

The wearing of our school uniform neatly and with care and thought sends an impression of respect and integrity. This simple task by our students, demonstrates to others that they are proud to be part of their School, they care about their School and understand the importance of representing their School with decency.

A display of courteous manners when meeting someone by smiling, making eye contact, extending greetings and shaking hands (when appropriate) is a basic sign of personal respect.

An exchange of greetings may be similar to the following example.

"Good morning, Julia."

"Good morning, Mr. Newbold."

"How are you, Julia?"

"Fine, thank you, Mr. Newbold and how are you?"

Excellent! Thank you for asking, Julia."

To refer to a person by name during a greeting is always a sign of courtesy and respect.

These examples of polite dialogue may seem simple and quite basic, but coupled with pride in one's appearance; they combine to form the ingredients for making a good impression.

"Smiles cost nothing, so give them freely." Anon