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Impression management: Developing your self-presentation skills

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What is impression management?

Examples of impression management, the theory behind impression management, impression management in the workplace, 7 impression management techniques, noticing the practice of impression management.

How much is a first impression worth?

We all know the value of a strong first impression, but not many of us know how to strategically go about creating one . Instead, we tend to cultivate two different personas. There’s our relaxed self, when we don’t feel like we have to impress. And then there are the times when we’re “on,” and we become deliberate about every word we say and move we make.

Social media has made us even more aware of the power of our personas. And that doesn’t mean that we have to be inauthentic. Understanding impression management can help us emphasize the qualities that we want to shine through and how to be more at ease with others.

Canadian social psychologist, sociologist, and writer Erving Goffman first presented the idea of impression management in the 1950s. In his book, The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life , Goffman uses the idea of theatre as a metaphor for human social interactions.

His theory became known as Goffman's dramaturgical analysis. It provides an interesting contextual framework for understanding human behavior.

Impression management is the sum total of actions we take — both consciously and unconsciously — to influence how others perceive us. We often attempt to manage how people see us to make us more likely to achieve our goals.

People use impression management to align how we’re seen with what we want. In general, we want other people to think of us as confident, likeable, intelligent, capable, interesting, and any number of other positive traits.

We then “adjust” our behavior to exhibit these characteristics to meet a desired goal. This is closely related to the self-presentation theory — and in fact, the two ideas are often used interchangeably.

If you’ve ever seen the musical Chicago, you’re familiar with the idea of impression management.

Our client, Roxie Hart, was an ambitious adulterer — a persona that wouldn’t have made her too sympathetic to the jury during her murder trial. Instead, she and her lawyer carefully curated a set of behaviors, actions, and even a backstory that made her seem more likeable and naive. 

This impression management strategy culminated in the song, “ They Both Reached for the Gun .” Her lawyer, Billy Flynn, stepped in to manage every part of her presentation to the court, emphasizing that Roxie would only have fired a gun in self-defense.

Outside of the Cook County jail, people use impression management strategies in all kinds of ways. Here are some examples you might have experienced in the workplace: 

• A person is walking into a meeting. They’ve had a rough morning and an even rougher commute. But they smile broadly and wave at each person as they walk in, hiding their bad mood and exhaustion. To all watching, they’re happy to be here.
• You’ve been working in your pajamas all day amongst a pile of paperwork and cookie crumbs. Before joining the afternoon Zoom call, you brush your hair, throw on a clean shirt, and dust the crumbs off the sofa.
• A candidate arrives for their job interview several minutes late. “So sorry,” they say breathlessly. “I was here early, but I got sent to the wrong office.”

What’s the point of this duplicity? 

Well, it might not be all that inauthentic . Despite a rough morning, the first person might genuinely be thrilled to be at work — or might be trying to salvage the day. You might be extremely punctual and just ended up in the wrong place. And it’s totally possible you have no idea how those cookies got there.

On both conscious and unconscious levels, we’re aware that in different situations, we need to emphasize different aspects of our personality and behavior. That doesn’t mean that they aren’t true, just that they’re hidden (under a layer of cookie dust). We tend to engage in a constant, quiet self-monitoring that makes us aware of behaviors that don’t align with how we want to be seen. 

Awareness of these internal contradictions is known as cognitive dissonance . It’s the sense of psychological discomfort that we feel when we’re doing something that contradicts our beliefs or values. We typically resolve cognitive dissonance by taking an action that’s better aligned with our beliefs, or by changing our beliefs to justify our behavior.

So in the above examples, we smile, clean up, or apologize because we want to emphasize our good nature, professionalism, and punctuality. We curate these behaviors to try to control the impressions others have of us. 

Over time, the behaviors (and feedback we get based on those behaviors) inform our self-concepts. We begin to believe that we are the face that we’re putting out to the world, and to a large extent we are.

After all, a tree makes a sound if it falls in the forest, even if no one is around to hear it. But it’s hard to understand the impact of the sound — or put it into context — without an audience.

Goffman explained impression management theory using theatre as a metaphor. Our behavior in a given setting is based on three components: motives , self-presentation , and social context .

We adapt our behaviors as a means to an end. We might want to seem more likeable, competent, or attractive. The qualities we decide to emphasize are the ones that we believe are in line with the outcome we want.

If you pay attention to people’s behavior across different settings, you can often guess what they want to accomplish. The behaviors and qualities they “play up” will clue you into the goal. 

Self-presentation

Self-presentation falls into two main categories: actions that are aligned with your self-image, and actions that align with the expectations of the “audience.” When people respond positively to the projected self, it has a positive impact on our self-esteem. 

This effect is multiplied when the desired image feels congruent with the audience’s expectations. In other words, when people feel like they can bring their whole selves to the “performance,” and that self is welcomed and rewarded, they feel great about themselves. In the workplace, these individuals have higher job satisfaction, a sense of belonging , and increased retention.

Social context

Our public image is also closely tied to how we conduct ourselves in social situations. We inform our understanding of acceptable and unacceptable (and by extension, desirable and undesirable) behavior according to context and social norms.

When we’re successful in making the desired impressions on a group, we feel good about our social standing.

Impression management is a very important skill to have in the workplace. It affects your social influence at work, or — in other words — how others perceive you and your company. 

How organizations use impression management

Organizations use it for both internal and external purposes. Internally, companies want to be seen by the industry as a good place to work. They want to appear organized, capable, supportive, and financially stable. Impression management is closely related to company culture. 

Organizations also use impression management for external purposes. This might include communications with clients, partners, or investors. Managing the positive and negative impression a company has on the general public is usually called public relations or marketing.

Impression management in interviews

The classic scenario of impression management in the workplace is the job interview. Candidates and interviewers alike feel compelled to try to look “perfect.” This means coming across as “authentically perfect” — that is, pleasant, competent, and yet not so perfect as to seem disingenuous.  

Interviews also involve quite a bit of self-promotion. Although self-promotion gets a bit of a bad rep, it’s often the best way for a company to find out about a candidate's skills and experience. This kind of self-promotion can help a candidate leave a positive impression on a prospective employer or client.

Note that this is only true when self-promotion is based in honesty. Lying about your skills or competencies doesn’t earn you any ingratiation points.

Interpersonal impression management

Another common use of impression management at work is building relationships with your colleagues. People usually have a work “persona,” which encompasses a range of behaviors, wardrobe choices, and even topics of conversation. 

While we all shift our behavior to suit different contexts, many feel the shift that happens at work acutely. This is because of the pressure and high value placed on social capital at work, which often compounds other issues of belonging. This kind of impression management is called code-switching .

Impression management techniques can be used in a variety of situations, from job interviews to networking events. Even if it happens unconsciously, we tend to match our behavior and techniques to the situation. According to Goffman, there are 7 different types of impression management tactics we use to control how others perceive us: conformity , excuses , acclaim , flattery , self-promotion , favors , and association .

1. Conformity

Conformity means being accepted by a larger group. In order to conform, you have to (implicitly or explicitly) uphold the social norms and expectations of the group.

Group norms are the behaviors that are considered appropriate for a situation or in a particular set of people. For example, if your job may have a business-casual dress code, so cut-off jeans would feel out-of-place.

Excuses are explanations for a negative event given in order to avoid (or lessen) punishment and judgment. There are countless examples of excuses being made — in and out of the workplace. For example, you might hear people blame traffic when they’re late to meetings.  

Generally speaking, you can only count on but so much social favor with excuses and apologies. Once you make an excuse, you’ve given up a little bit of authority in the situations. Do this too often, and you’ll be seen as unreliable or as a perpetual victim .

That being said, traffic, setbacks, and emergencies really do happen. Communicating these changes proactively can go a long way towards building rapport — especially if you show you’re willing to work through it. 

Public recognition of someone’s accomplishments often goes a long way towards building rapport. When you acclaim someone in this way, you applaud them for their skills and success. If your team is recognition-driven, this sentiment will likely inspire others to work hard as well. It can help incentivize specific behaviors.

4. Flattery

Flattery is a technique often used to improve your relationship with someone through compliments. It’s meant to make you seem agreeable, perceptive, and pleasant. After all, who wouldn’t want to spend time with someone who always has something positive to say about them?

As with the other techniques — if not even more so — flattery can easily come across as insincere. Anchor flattering comments in specific praise, and try not to go overboard. It can be helpful to develop self-awareness and ask yourself why you’re piling it on. Are you truly impressed, or are you feeling a little insecure?

5. Self-promotion

Self-promotion is about highlighting your strengths and drawing attention to your achievements. This phenomenon is especially common in business settings, but it’s frequently seen in personal relationships, too. Because it’s self-directed, some worry that “bragging” on themselves will make them less likeable.

You can eliminate a little of this pressure by looking for spaces where talking about yourself isn’t just welcomed, but expected. Social media, job interviews, and professional networking events are great platforms for practicing self-promotion. Curate at least one space where you can own your full range of accomplishments.

Doing a favor for someone, whether in business or in everyday life, shifts the power dynamic of a relationship. It establishes the person doing the favor as “useful,” and may result in the recipient feeling like they owe something to the other party. 

When favors only come with strings attached, people feel manipulated and resentful. When they’re done freely and out of a desire to be helpful, they can build mutual affinity in a relationship.

7. Association

Association means ensuring that any information shared about you, your company, and your partners is truthful and relevant. This is especially important, as being associated with someone means that everyone’s impressions reflect on each other's values and image.

Sometimes, we consciously associate with certain people to promote our self-image. Some people will network with you (and you with others) in hopes of being introduced to a larger network of contacts.

Impression management is the act of managing how other people perceive you. It is a social strategy that we employ in order to make a good impression on others and to control what they think about us. 

The practice of impression management is a common one in modern society. It’s one of the main ways that people try to maintain their social status and establish themselves as a worthy individual. We may not be aware that we’re doing it, but — at any given time — we’re making dozens of decisions that are influenced by what others might think of us.

You can learn how to better manage your own persona, thrive in social situations, and understand the behavior of others by working with a coach. Coaches can help you understand what you need to project more (or less) of to get what you want, and how to align it with your authentic self.

Ready to learn how to improve your influence, both in and out of the workplace? Schedule a demo with a BetterUp coach today.

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Allaya Cooks-Campbell

With over 15 years of content experience, Allaya Cooks Campbell has written for outlets such as ScaryMommy, HRzone, and HuffPost. She holds a B.A. in Psychology and is a certified yoga instructor as well as a certified Integrative Wellness & Life Coach. Allaya is passionate about whole-person wellness, yoga, and mental health.

The self presentation theory and how to present your best self

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Impression Management: Erving Goffman Theory

Charlotte Nickerson

Research Assistant at Harvard University

Undergraduate at Harvard University

Charlotte Nickerson is a student at Harvard University obsessed with the intersection of mental health, productivity, and design.

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Saul McLeod, PhD

Editor-in-Chief for Simply Psychology

BSc (Hons) Psychology, MRes, PhD, University of Manchester

Saul McLeod, PhD., is a qualified psychology teacher with over 18 years of experience in further and higher education. He has been published in peer-reviewed journals, including the Journal of Clinical Psychology.

Olivia Guy-Evans, MSc

Associate Editor for Simply Psychology

BSc (Hons) Psychology, MSc Psychology of Education

Olivia Guy-Evans is a writer and associate editor for Simply Psychology. She has previously worked in healthcare and educational sectors.

On This Page:

• Impression management refers to the goal-directed conscious or unconscious attempt to influence the perceptions of other people about a person, object, or event by regulating and controlling information in social interaction.
• Generally, people undertake impression management to achieve goals that require they have a desired public image. This activity is called self-presentation.
• In sociology and social psychology, self-presentation is the conscious or unconscious process through which people try to control the impressions other people form of them.
• The goal is for one to present themselves the way in which they would like to be thought of by the individual or group they are interacting with. This form of management generally applies to the first impression.
• Erving Goffman popularized the concept of perception management in his book, The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life , where he argues that impression management not only influences how one is treated by other people but is an essential part of social interaction.

Impression Management in Sociology

Impression management, also known as self-presentation, refers to the ways that people attempt to control how they are perceived by others (Goffman, 1959).

By conveying particular impressions about their abilities, attitudes, motives, status, emotional reactions, and other characteristics, people can influence others to respond to them in desirable ways.

Impression management is a common way for people to influence one another in order to obtain various goals.

While earlier theorists (e.g., Burke, 1950; Hart & Burk, 1972) offered perspectives on the person as a performer, Goffman (1959) was the first to develop a specific theory concerning self-presentation.

In his well-known work, Goffman created the foundation and the defining principles of what is commonly referred to as impression management.

In explicitly laying out a purpose for his work, Goffman (1959) proposes to “consider the ways in which the individual in ordinary work situations presents himself and his activity to others, the ways in which he guides and controls the impression they form of him, and the kind of things he may or may not do while sustaining his performance before them.” (p. xi)

Social Interaction

Goffman viewed impression management not only as a means of influencing how one is treated by other people but also as an essential part of social interaction.

He communicates this view through the conceit of theatre. Actors give different performances in front of different audiences, and the actors and the audience cooperate in negotiating and maintaining the definition of a situation.

To Goffman, the self was not a fixed thing that resides within individuals but a social process. For social interactions to go smoothly, every interactant needs to project a public identity that guides others’ behaviors (Goffman, 1959, 1963; Leary, 2001; Tseelon, 1992).

Goffman defines that when people enter the presence of others, they communicate information by verbal intentional methods and by non-verbal unintentional methods.

According to Goffman, individuals participate in social interactions through performing a “line” or “a pattern of verbal and nonverbal acts by which he expresses his view of the situation and through this his evaluation of the participants, especially himself” (1967, p. 5).

Such lines are created and maintained by both the performer and the audience. By enacting a line effectively, a person gains positive social value or “face.”

The verbal intentional methods allow us to establish who we are and what we wish to communicate directly. We must use these methods for the majority of the actual communication of data.

Goffman is mostly interested in the non-verbal clues given off which are less easily manipulated. When these clues are manipulated the receiver generally still has the upper hand in determining how realistic the clues that are given off are.

People use these clues to determine how to treat a person and if the intentional verbal responses given off are actually honest. It is also known that most people give off clues that help to represent them in a positive light, which tends to be compensated for by the receiver.

Impression Management Techniques

• Suppressing emotions : Maintaining self-control (which we will identify with such practices as speaking briefly and modestly).
• Conforming to Situational Norms : The performer follows agreed-upon rules for behavior in the organization.
• Flattering Others : The performer compliments the perceiver. This tactic works best when flattery is not extreme and when it involves a dimension important to the perceiver.
• Being Consistent : The performer’s beliefs and behaviors are consistent. There is agreement between the performer’s verbal and nonverbal behaviors.

Self-Presentation Examples

Self-presentation can affect the emotional experience . For example, people can become socially anxious when they are motivated to make a desired impression on others but doubt that they can do so successfully (Leary, 2001).

In one paper on self-presentation and emotional experience, Schlenker and Leary (1982) argue that, in contrast to the drive models of anxiety, the cognitive state of the individual mediates both arousal and behavior.

The researchers examine the traditional inverted-U anxiety-performance curve (popularly known as the Yerkes-Dodson law) in this light.

The researchers propose that people are interpersonally secure when they do not have the goal of creating a particular impression on others.

They are not immediately concerned about others’ evaluative reactions in a social setting where they are attempting to create a particular impression and believe that they will be successful in doing so.

Meanwhile, people are anxious when they are uncertain about how to go about creating a certain impression (such as when they do not know what sort of attributes the other person is likely to be impressed with), think that they will not be able to project the types of images that will produce preferred reactions from others.

Such people think that they will not be able to project the desired image strongly enough or believe that some event will happen that will repudiate their self-presentations, causing reputational damage (Schlenker and Leary, 1982).

Psychologists have also studied impression management in the context of mental and physical health .

In one such study, Braginsky et al. (1969) showed that those hospitalized with schizophrenia modify the severity of their “disordered” behavior depending on whether making a more or less “disordered” impression would be most beneficial to them (Leary, 2001).

Additional research on university students shows that people may exaggerate or even fabricate reports of psychological distress when doing so for their social goals.

Hypochondria appears to have self-presentational features where people convey impressions of illness and injury, when doing so helps to drive desired outcomes such as eliciting support or avoiding responsibilities (Leary, 2001).

People can also engage in dangerous behaviors for self-presentation reasons such as suntanning, unsafe sex, and fast driving. People may also refuse needed medical treatment if seeking this medical treatment compromises public image (Leary et al., 1994).

Key Components

There are several determinants of impression management, and people have many reasons to monitor and regulate how others perceive them.

For example, social relationships such as friendship, group membership, romantic relationships, desirable jobs, status, and influence rely partly on other people perceiving the individual as being a particular kind of person or having certain traits.

Because people’s goals depend on them making desired impressions over undesired impressions, people are concerned with the impressions other people form of them.

Although people appear to monitor how they come across ongoingly, the degree to which they are motivated to impression manage and the types of impressions they try to foster varies by situation and individuals (Leary, 2001).

Leary and Kowalski (1990) say that there are two processes that constitute impression management, each of which operate according to different principles and are affected by different situations and dispositional aspects. The first of these processes is impression motivation, and the second is impression construction.

Impression Motivation

There are three main factors that affect how much people are motivated to impression-manage in a situation (Leary and Kowalski, 1990):

(1) How much people believe their public images are relevant to them attaining their desired goals.

When people believe that their public image is relevant to them achieving their goals, they are generally more motivated to control how others perceive them (Leary, 2001).

Conversely, when the impressions of other people have few implications on one’s outcomes, that person’s motivation to impression-manage will be lower.

This is why people are more likely to impression manage in their interactions with powerful, high-status people than those who are less powerful and have lower status (Leary, 2001).

(2) How valuable the goals are: people are also more likely to impress and manage the more valuable the goals for which their public impressions are relevant (Leary, 2001).

(3) how much of a discrepancy there is between how they want to be perceived and how they believe others perceive them..

People are more highly motivated to impression-manage when there is a difference between how they want to be perceived and how they believe others perceive them.

For example, public scandals and embarrassing events that convey undesirable impressions can cause people to make self-presentational efforts to repair what they see as their damaged reputations (Leary, 2001).

Impression Construction

Features of the social situations that people find themselves in, as well as their own personalities, determine the nature of the impressions that they try to convey.

In particular, Leary and Kowalski (1990) name five sets of factors that are especially important in impression construction (Leary, 2001).

Two of these factors include how people’s relationships with themselves (self-concept and desired identity), and three involve how people relate to others (role constraints, target value, and current or potential social image) (Leary and Kowalski, 1990).

Self-concept

The impressions that people try to create are influenced not only by social context but also by one’s own self-concept .

People usually want others to see them as “how they really are” (Leary, 2001), but this is in tension with the fact that people must deliberately manage their impressions in order to be viewed accurately by others (Goffman, 1959).

People’s self-concepts can also constrain the images they try to convey.

People often believe that it is unethical to present impressions of themselves different from how they really are and generally doubt that they would successfully be able to sustain a public image inconsistent with their actual characteristics (Leary, 2001).

This risk of failure in portraying a deceptive image and the accompanying social sanctions deter people from presenting impressions discrepant from how they see themselves (Gergen, 1968; Jones and Pittman, 1982; Schlenker, 1980).

People can differ in how congruent their self-presentations are with their self-perceptions.

People who are high in public self-consciousness have less congruency between their private and public selves than those lower in public self-consciousness (Tunnell, 1984; Leary and Kowalski, 1990).

Desired identity

People’s desired and undesired selves – how they wish to be and not be on an internal level – also influence the images that they try to project.

Schlenker (1985) defines a desirable identity image as what a person “would like to be and thinks he or she really can be, at least at his or her best.”

People have a tendency to manage their impressions so that their images coincide with their desired selves and stay away from images that coincide with their undesired selves (Ogilivie, 1987; Schlenker, 1985; Leary, 2001).

This happens when people publicly claim attributes consistent with their desired identity and openly reject identities that they do not want to be associated with.

For example, someone who abhors bigots may take every step possible to not appear bigoted, and Gergen and Taylor (1969) showed that high-status navel cadets did not conform to low-status navel cadets because they did not want to see themselves as conformists (Leary and Kowalski, 1990).

Target value

people tailor their self-presentations to the values of the individuals whose perceptions they are concerned with.

This may lead to people sometimes fabricating identities that they think others will value.

However, more commonly, people selectively present truthful aspects of themselves that they believe coincide with the values of the person they are targeting the impression to and withhold information that they think others will value negatively (Leary, 2001).

Role constraints

the content of people’s self-presentations is affected by the roles that they take on and the norms of their social context.

In general, people want to convey impressions consistent with their roles and norms .

Many roles even carry self-presentational requirements around the kinds of impressions that the people who hold the roles should and should not convey (Leary, 2001).

Current or potential social image

People’s public image choices are also influenced by how they think they are perceived by others. As in impression motivation, self-presentational behaviors can often be aimed at dispelling undesired impressions that others hold about an individual.

When people believe that others have or are likely to develop an undesirable impression of them, they will typically try to refute that negative impression by showing that they are different from how others believe them to be.

When they are not able to refute this negative impression, they may project desirable impressions in other aspects of their identity (Leary, 2001).

Implications

In the presence of others, few of the behaviors that people make are unaffected by their desire to maintain certain impressions. Even when not explicitly trying to create a particular impression of themselves, people are constrained by concerns about their public image.

Generally, this manifests with people trying not to create undesired impressions in virtually all areas of social life (Leary, 2001).

Tedeschi et al. (1971) argued that phenomena that psychologists previously attributed to peoples’ need to have cognitive consistency actually reflected efforts to maintain an impression of consistency in others’ eyes.

Studies have supported Tedeschi and their colleagues’ suggestion that phenomena previously attributed to cognitive dissonance were actually affected by self-presentational processes (Schlenker, 1980).

Psychologists have applied self-presentation to their study of phenomena as far-ranging as conformity, aggression, prosocial behavior, leadership, negotiation, social influence, gender, stigmatization, and close relationships (Baumeister, 1982; Leary, 1995; Schlenker, 1980; Tedeschi, 1981).

Each of these studies shows that people’s efforts to make impressions on others affect these phenomena, and, ultimately, that concerns self-presentation in private social life.

For example, research shows that people are more likely to be pro-socially helpful when their helpfulness is publicized and behave more prosocially when they desire to repair a damaged social image by being helpful (Leary, 2001).

In a similar vein, many instances of aggressive behavior can be explained as self-presentational efforts to show that someone is willing to hurt others in order to get their way.

This can go as far as gender roles, for which evidence shows that men and women behave differently due to the kind of impressions that are socially expected of men and women.

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Tunnell, G. (1984). The discrepancy between private and public selves: Public self-consciousness and its correlates. Journal of Personality Assessment, 48, 549-555.

Further Information

• Solomon, J. F., Solomon, A., Joseph, N. L., & Norton, S. D. (2013). Impression management, myth creation and fabrication in private social and environmental reporting: Insights from Erving Goffman. Accounting, organizations and society, 38(3), 195-213.
• Gardner, W. L., & Martinko, M. J. (1988). Impression management in organizations. Journal of management, 14(2), 321-338.
• Scheff, T. J. (2005). Looking‐Glass self: Goffman as symbolic interactionist. Symbolic interaction, 28(2), 147-166.

A Simple Way to Introduce Yourself

by Andrea Wojnicki

Summary .   

You know the scenario. It could be in an online meeting, or perhaps you are seated around a boardroom table. The meeting leader asks everyone to briefly introduce themselves. Suddenly, your brain goes into hyperdrive. What should I say about myself?

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Self-Presentation Theory

Self-Presentation Theory: Understanding the Art of Impression Management

In the grand theater of life, where every social interaction is a stage and we are both the actors and the audience, self-presentation theory takes center stage. It whispers the secrets of our performances, the subtle art of crafting personas, and the intricate dance between authenticity and impression. As we pull back the curtain on this psychological narrative, we delve into the depths of human behavior, exploring how the masks we wear and the roles we play are not merely acts of deception but profound expressions of our deepest desires to connect, belong, and be understood in the ever-unfolding drama of existence.

Self-presentation theory, originating from the field of social psychology, delves into the intricate ways individuals strategically convey and portray their desired image to others. This theory explores the underlying motivations and cognitive processes governing how people present themselves in social situations, aiming to understand the dynamics of impression management.

Key Definition:

Self-presentation theory refers to the behavior and strategies individuals use to shape the perceptions that others form about them. This theory suggests that individuals strive to convey a favorable impression to others by managing their public image. It encompasses various aspects such as impression management, identity, and social interaction, and is often associated with social psychology and communication studies. According to this theory, individuals may engage in behaviors such as self-disclosure, performance, and conformity to influence how others perceive them.

Origins and Development

The concept of self-presentation theory was initially formulated by sociologist Erving Goffman, in his seminal work The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life , originally published in 1956. Goffman’s was first to create a specific theory concerning self-presentation, laying the foundation for what is now commonly referred to as impression management. His book became widely known after its publication in the United States in 1959.

Goffman’s theory draws from the imagery of theater to portray the importance of human social interaction. He proposed that in social interactions, individuals perform much like actors on a stage, managing the impressions others form of them by controlling information in various ways. This process involves a “front” where the individual presents themselves in a certain manner, and a “back” where they can step out of their role.

His work has been influential in sociology, social psychology, and anthropology, as it was the first to treat face-to-face interaction as a subject of sociological study. Goffman’s dramaturgical analysis observes a connection between the kinds of acts people put on in their daily life and theatrical performances. The theory has had a lasting impact on our understanding of social behavior and continues to be a significant reference point in studies of social interaction.

Impression Management Strategies

Much of Goffman’s early work suggests that “avoidance of shame is an important, indeed a crucial, motive in virtually all social behavior.” Goffman posits that impression management is typically a greater motivation than rational and instrumental goals. Thomas J. Scheff explains that “one tries to control the impression one makes on others, even others who are not significant to one’s life” ( Scheff, 1997. Kindle location: 4,106 ).

Self-presentation theory encompasses a spectrum of strategies employed by individuals to shape others’ perceptions of them. Impression management strategies in social interaction theory are the various techniques individuals use to influence how others perceive them. Individuals employ these strategies to present themselves in a favorable light. The motivation is to achieve specific goals or maintain certain relationships. Here are some key impression management strategies:

• Self-Promotion : Highlighting one’s own positive qualities, achievements, and skills to be seen as competent and capable.
• Ingratiation : Using flattery or praise to make oneself likable to others, often to gain their favor or approval.
• Exemplification : Demonstrating one’s own moral integrity or dedication to elicit respect and admiration from others.
• Intimidation : Projecting a sense of power or threat to influence others to comply with one’s wishes.
• Supplication : Presenting oneself as weak or needy to elicit sympathy or assistance from others.

These strategies can be assertive, involving active attempts to shape one’s image, or defensive, aimed at protecting one’s image. The choice of strategy depends on the individual’s goals, the context of the interaction, and the nature of the relationship.

The Game of Presentation

In many ways, self-presentation opposes other psychology concepts such as authenticity. We adapt to ur environments, and present ourselves accordingly. We act much different at grandma’s house than we do when out drinking with our friends. Perhaps, authenticity is context dependent. However, we can present ourselves differently in different situations without violating core self-values. The presentations may differ but the self remains unchanged.

Carl Jung mused in reflection of his childhood interactions with his friends that, “I found that they alienated me from myself. When I was with them I became different from the way I was at home.” He continues, “it seemed to me that the change in myself was due to the influence of my schoolfellows, who somehow misled me or compelled me to be different from what I thought I was” ( Jung, 2011 ).

Jonathan Haidt suggests that it is merely game. He wrote, “to win at this game you must present your best possible self to others. You must appear virtuous, whether or not you are, and you must gain the benefits of cooperation whether or not you deserve them.” He continues to warn “but everyone else is playing the same game, so you must also play defense—you must be wary of others’ self-presentations, and of their efforts to claim more for themselves than they deserve” ( Haidt, 2003. Kindle location: 1,361 ).

Healthy and Unhealthy Modes of Self-Presentation

We all self-present, creating images that fit the context. While seeking a partner, we self-present a person who is worthy of investing time in. Only in time, do some of these masks begin to fade. Impression management is essential to build new relationships, get the job, and prevent social rejection. Mahzarin R, Banaji and Anthony G. Greenwald wrote, “honesty may be an overrated virtue. If you decided to report all of your flaws to friends and to apply a similar standard of total honesty when talking to others about their shortcomings, you might soon find that you no longer have friends.” they continue, “our daily social lives demand, and generally receive, repeated lubrication with a certain amount of untruthfulness, which keeps the gears of social interaction meshing smoothly” ( Banaji & Greenwald, 2016, pp. 28-29 ).

However, this healthy practice morphs into something sinister when the presented self has nothing to do with the real self. Daniel Goleman refers to individuals that engage in unhealthy deceitful presentations as social chameleons. He wrote, “the social chameleon will seem to be whatever those he is with seem to want. The sign that someone falls into this pattern…is that they make an excellent impression, yet have few stable or satisfying intimate relationships” ( Golman, 2011, Kindle location: 2,519 ).

Goleman explains that “a more healthy pattern, of course, is to balance being true to oneself with social skills, using them with integrity.” He adds, “social chameleons, though, don’t mind in the least saying one thing and doing another, if that will win them social approval” ( Goleman, 2011, Kindle location: 2,523 ).

Situational Influences

The application of self-presentation strategies is contingent upon the social context and the specific goals an individual pursues. In professional settings, individuals may engage in self-promotion to advance their careers, while in personal relationships, they might prioritize authenticity and sincerity. The ubiquity of social media further complicates self-presentation, as individuals navigate the curation of online personas and the management of digital identities.

In the professional realm, the strategic presentation of oneself can play a crucial role in career development and success. This may involve showcasing one’s achievements, skills, and expertise to stand out in a competitive environment. However, it’s important to strike a balance between self-promotion and humility to maintain credibility and foster positive professional relationships.

On the other hand, personal relationships often thrive on genuine connections and authenticity. In these contexts, individuals may choose to present themselves in a sincere manner, emphasizing vulnerability and openness to establish meaningful connections with others. While occasional self-promotion may still occur, the emphasis is more on building trust and rapport.

Social Media and Self-Presentation

The rise of social media has introduced a new layer of complexity to self-presentation. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn offer opportunities for individuals to craft their virtual identities. This process involves selective sharing of information, curation of posts and images, and the management of online interactions. The challenge lies in maintaining a balance between projecting an aspirational image and staying true to one’s authentic self in the digital sphere.

In Goffman’s lengthy comparison between actors and audience suggests that anyone could perform, presenting a certain image. However, he points out that if the actor is a known criminal the audience would not be able to accept their performance, knowing it is a fraud. The actor may enjoy success by going on the road, performing to audiences that are not aware of the actor’s criminal past ( Goffman, 1956, p. 223 ). The internet allows the individual with a shady past to bring their show on the road to an unsuspecting audience who can buy their deceitful performance.

Navigating these diverse self-presentation strategies requires individuals to be mindful of the specific social contexts and their underlying goals. Whether it’s in the professional arena or personal relationships, the nuanced art of self-presentation continues to evolve in the digital age, shaping how individuals perceive and position themselves in the world.

Self-Presentation and Emotional Labor

The intersection of self-presentation theory with emotional labor is a topic of significant interest. Emotional labor pertains to the management of one’s emotions to meet the demands of a particular role or job. Individuals often engage in self-presentation to display appropriate emotions in various settings, leading to a convergence between impression management and emotional regulation. One of the key aspects of this intersection is the impact it has on employee well-being.

Research has shown that the need to regulate emotions in the workplace can lead to emotional exhaustion and burnout. Additionally, there are important implications for organizations, as they have a vested interest in understanding and managing the emotional labor of their employees. Effective programs may enhance employee well-being and improve the quality of service provided to customers. Moreover, the intersection of self-presentation and emotional labor can also be examined through the lens of gender and cultural differences. These examination may highlight the complexities and nuances of this phenomenon in diverse contexts. Understanding this intersection is crucial for creating supportive work environments and fostering healthy, sustainable emotional practices.

See Emotional Labor for more on this topic

Implications and Future Directions

Understanding self-presentation theory has widespread implications, spanning from interpersonal relationships to organizational dynamics. By acknowledging the nuanced strategies individuals employ to shape perceptions, psychologists and practitioners can better grasp human behavior in diverse contexts. Future research may delve into the interplay between self-presentation and cultural factors. In addition, further research may cast light on the psychological effects of sustained impression management on individuals’ well-being.

As individuals, we can understand that we, as well as others, use impression management. Before investing significant resources, we would be wise to try to unmask the presenter and make a decision based on reality rather than expertely presented deceptions.

A List of Practical Implications

Understanding the concepts related to self-presentation theory, such as impression management, self-concept, and social identity, has several practical implications in everyday life:

• Enhanced Social Interactions : By being aware of how we present ourselves, we can navigate social situations more effectively, tailoring our behavior to suit different contexts and relationships.
• Improved Professional Relationships : In the workplace, understanding self-presentation can help in managing professional personas, leading to better workplace dynamics and career advancement.
• Personal Development : Recognizing the strategies we use for impression management can lead to greater self-awareness and personal growth, as we align our external presentation with our internal values.
• Conflict Resolution : Awareness of self-presentation strategies can aid in resolving conflicts by understanding the motivations behind others’ behaviors and addressing the underlying issues.
• Mental Health : Understanding the effort involved in emotional labor and impression management can help in identifying when these efforts are leading to stress or burnout, prompting us to seek support or make changes.
• Authentic Relationships : By balancing self-presentation with authenticity, we can foster deeper and more genuine connections with others.
• Cultural Competence : Recognizing the role of social identity in self-presentation can enhance our sensitivity to cultural differences and improve cross-cultural communication.

Overall, these concepts can empower us to be more intentional in our interactions, leading to more fulfilling and effective communication in our personal and professional lives.

Associated Concepts

Self-presentation theory is intricately connected to a variety of psychological concepts that help explain the behaviors and motivations behind how individuals present themselves to others. Here are some related concepts:

• Self-Concept : This refers to how people perceive themselves and their awareness of who they are. Self-presentation is often a reflection of one’s self-concept, as individuals attempt to project an image that aligns with their self-perception.
• Impression Management : This is the process by which individuals attempt to control the impressions others form of them. It involves a variety of strategies to influence others’ perceptions in a way that is favorable to the individual.
• Social Identity : The part of an individual’s self-concept derived from their membership in social groups. Self-presentation can be used to highlight certain aspects of one’s social identity.
• Cognitive Dissonance : This occurs when there is a discrepancy between one’s beliefs and behaviors. Self-presentation strategies may be employed to reduce cognitive dissonance by aligning one’s outward behavior with internal beliefs.
• Role Theory : Suggests that individuals behave in ways that align with the expectations of the social roles they occupy. Self-presentation can be seen as performing the appropriate role in a given context.
• Self-Esteem : The value one places on oneself. Self-presentation can be a means to enhance or protect one’s self-esteem by controlling how others view them.
• Self-Efficacy : One’s belief in their ability to succeed. Through self-presentation, individuals may seek to project confidence and competence to others, thereby reinforcing their own sense of self-efficacy.

These concepts are interrelated and contribute to the understanding of self-presentation theory as a whole, providing insight into the complex nature of social interactions and the motivations behind individuals’ efforts to influence how they are perceived by others.

A Few Words by Psychology Fanatic

In essence, self-presentation theory captures the multifaceted nature of human interaction, shedding light on the conscious and subconscious processes governing how individuals present themselves in the social arena. By unraveling the intricacies of impression management, researchers continue to unveil the complexities of human behavior and the underlying motivations that propel our interactions with others.

Last Update: April 29, 2024

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References:

Goffman, Erving (1956/ 2021 ). The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life. Anchor

Goleman, Daniel ( 2005 ). Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ. Bantam Books . Read on Kindle Books.

Haidt, Jonathan ( 2003 ). The Happiness Hypothesis: Finding Modern Truth in Ancient Wisdom. Basic Books ; 1st edition.

Jung, Carl Gustav (1961/ 2011 ). Memories, Dreams, Reflections. Vintage ; Reissue edition.

Banaji, Mahzarin R.; Greenwald, Anthony G. ( 2016 ). Blindspot: Hidden Biases of Good People.  Bantam ; Reprint edition.

Scheff, Thomas J. ( 1997 ). Shame in Social Theory. Editors Lansky, M. R. and Morrison, A. P. In The Widening Scope of Shame. ​ Routledge ; 1st edition.

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Impression Management (Definition + Tips)

How we present ourselves plays an important role in shaping our personal and professional lives. The way we dress, the stories we tell, and even the photos we choose to share on social media are all decisions that contribute to how others perceive us. But have you ever stopped to think about the science and strategy behind these choices?

Impression Management is how people try to shape what others think of them. It's like showing your best side or fitting in with a group at work or with friends.

Let’s learn about its origins, its implications, and its undeniable relevance in today’s dynamic world.

Understanding Impression Management

Imagine you're assembling a puzzle. Each piece represents a bit of who you are—your hobbies, your dreams, your quirks, and even your favorite foods.

Now, imagine you're show this puzzle to different groups of people: your family, your friends, or a prospective employer.

Would you present the same completed picture to everyone ? Likely not. You'd adjust some pieces, emphasizing certain aspects while perhaps minimizing or hiding others. This real-life 'puzzle arrangement' is a lot like impression management.

Basically, impression management theory is about shaping how you're perceived. It's like being a director of your own movie, deciding which scenes to include for specific audiences.

If successful, the person gains positive social value and opinion conformity, which means that everyone in a particular audience (be it work, family, friends, or others) has the same image of you.

Now, this doesn't mean being inauthentic; it's just about recognizing and responding to social cues .

In the digital age, impression management extends beyond face-to-face interactions. Consider your social media profiles. You probably have that perfect shot from your recent vacation as your profile picture.

Or perhaps you shared an article about a cause you deeply care about. Each post, each like, and even each share is a choice you make in managing how others perceive you online. These decisions influence your online public image, a modern part of personal branding.

Understanding impression management isn't just about knowing how to put your best foot forward. It’s also about grasping why people do it, and the psychological mechanisms behind it.

It plays a pivotal role in job interviews, first dates, and everyday situations. Recognizing it can make you more aware of your actions and how they affect your relationships.

By now, you might be thinking: "So, we all do this to some extent?" Yes, absolutely. It’s an inherent part of human nature. And as you continue reading, you'll grasp its broader contexts, historical roots, and how you can use it effectively in your life.

Impression Management in History

Long before the rise of modern social psychology itself, humans have been mindful of how they come across to others. Every era and civilization has its own customs, etiquette, and values that guide behavior.

So, while the term "impression management" might seem relatively recent, the concept? It's as old as human society itself.

Think of ancient Egypt . Pharaohs were often depicted in grandiose poses, larger than everyone else in hieroglyphs. Their posture, clothing, and surroundings—all were carefully chosen.

This wasn't just art; it was a statement. These rulers weren't simply trying to look good. They had impression motivation to showcase their power and divine connection. This portrayal reinforced their authority and distinguished them from the masses.

Fast forward a bit, and you'll find the Renaissance era in Europe —a time of enlightenment and rediscovery. Painters like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo created beautiful portraits of their subjects. But there was more to these paintings than met the eye.

These weren't just visual records; they were also tools for reputation management. A noblewoman, captured in an unassuming pose with a landscape backdrop wasn't just sitting for a painting. She was sending a message about her status, her virtue, and her place in society. She, too, had impression motivation.

It wasn't until the 20th century that academia recognized impression management theory. The field of sociology began to look into how individuals played roles in society and their social setting.

These roles, much like actors on a stage, had scripts, props, and costumes. This theatrical analogy was more than poetic—it was an idea that helped bridge ancient practices with modern understanding of self presentation.

You might think that managing your Instagram feed or rehearsing for a job interview is a modern thing. But remember: impression management has been around as long as humans. We've always wanted to control the impressions others have of us. Now, we call it "self promotion".

The Concept of Impression Management

Ever felt like life is a stage and we're all just actors playing our parts? That's a sociological perspective thought up by one of the most influential thinkers of the 20th century. Erving Goffman was that thinker's name.

Goffman introduced the world to a concept he called the dramaturgical approach . Imagine attending a play. Actors come on stage, play their parts, and use props—all while an audience watches.

In Goffman's eyes, everyday life isn't too different. We all perform a self presentation, whether we know it or not.

The world is our stage. The roles we play ? They're not just limited to 'parent', 'employee', or 'friend'. They're more detailed. And these roles guide our behavior, shaping how we interact and present ourselves. The roles are the process by which people control how others form a desired image.

Now, when you're with your family, you might show your caring, nurturing side—like playing the role of a loving sibling or child. In contrast, during a business meeting, you'll highlight your professionalism and expertise.

Here, you've switched roles—from family member to business professional. And with each role, there are different behaviors, expectations, and, yes, impressions to manage. In other words, presenting oneself in a positive light to gain approval, or for other desired outcomes.

Goffman explained this using the terms front stage and back stage . The front stage is where the performance happens. It's your polished self presentation during a client pitch or your attentive listening on a date.

The back stage is the place where actors (or individuals) can be themselves. It's where you are away from your audience. This could be your home, where you relax in comfy pajamas, or the moments of laughter with close friends.

But here's the twist. Goffman emphasized that even in these 'authentic' backstage moments, some level of performance is still at play.

Maybe you're the 'funny one' in your friend group, so you're always on the lookout for a good joke. Or perhaps you're the 'responsible sibling', always making sure everything's in order. People form ideas of how they want to be seen that lead to self presentation strategies we perform all the time.

In other words, people want to leave a desired image which ends up meaning they are managing impressions all the time, even subconsciously.

Understanding Goffman's perspective offers a fresh lens to view everyday interactions. It's not about being fake or pretending. Instead, it's recognizing the many roles you take on throughout your day, each with its own set of expectations.

Key Concepts and Terminology

Speaking briefly, let's break down some of the key ideas of impression management.

To begin, let's introduce a new term: role conflict . As you juggle various roles—parent, employee, friend, partner—there might be times when these roles clash.

For instance, you might be torn between attending an important work event and your child's school play. This tug-of-war between roles can lead to stress because you have to decide which 'performance' is more important.

Another crucial concept is self-monitoring . Some people can naturally read a room and adjusting their behavior as needed. They're high self-monitors , constantly tweaking their self presentation to align with their audience's expectations.

On the flip side, low self-monitors tend to be more consistent in their behavior, regardless of the setting. They may still have an active social life, but their self control makes them act like the same person. In other words, they do not change their self presentation.

Lastly, there's identity management . While it sounds like impression management, it's more about how individuals shape their own self perception. We all have defining principles that people attempt to control to leave others with our desired impressions.

It's an internal process of understanding your self-concept and where you fit in society.

How We Manage Impressions in Daily Life

Ever noticed how your tone might change when talking to your grandparents compared to a childhood friend? Or you've caught yourself dressing differently for a casual get-together versus a business meeting.

These aren't random shifts; they're deliberate choices, subtle nods to the world of impression management. If done poorly, switching our verbal and nonverbal acts could leave a negative impression. On the other hand, some self presentation could lead to career success or positive interpersonal relations.

Let's explore some everyday scenarios where this comes to life.

Imagine you're at a college reunion. You might find yourself showing off your recent achievements. Perhaps you bring up the promotion you got or the trip you took last summer. Here, you're managing the impression of success.

Now, switch scenes. You're at a parent-teacher conference. Instead of focusing on your personal achievements, you focus on your child's progress.

You're interested in their strengths and areas for improvement. Your role here is that of an engaged and caring parent, and your interactions are changed to reinforce that image.

Consider online dating. Profile pictures, bio descriptions, and even initial messages are all carefully chosen. A person might highlight their love for adventure with photos of mountain hikes. Or they show off their passion for music with photos from concerts.

These choices aren't just about personal expression. They're aimed at attracting a partner who shares or admires those interests.

Social Media

Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook are playgrounds for impression management strategies. A person might share photos from a charity event they attended. They don't do it just to document the day but to show their values and community engagement.

On the other hand, sharing a workout video might be a way to showcase discipline, health-consciousness, and determination.

In job interviews, people often focus on qualities they believe the employer values. These include teamwork, leadership, or problem-solving skills.

It's not about showing off. It's about aligning oneself with your job performance, the company's culture and the role's requirements.

The Role of Technology

Our screens have become windows to the world and mirrors reflecting our personas back at us. Technology, particularly social media, has brought about a shift in the ways we engage in impression management . Specifically, we are now interested in self promotion at least as much, if not more, than self presentation.

Years ago, impression management only about in-person interactions. What mattered was how you dressed for an occasion, your posture, or the tone of your voice.

Now, it's about the photos you post, the status updates you share, and the people or pages you engage with. How we manage impressions has grown to include formal public relations, such as in a company or government, and self promotion if we are building a brand.

For instance, people on LinkedIn often share their career achievements, recommendations, and skills. It's the digital equal of a fancy suit. This is clearly self promotion, since the platform is for professional connections and job opportunities.

In contrast, Instagram and TikTok allow for more creativity and personal expression. From the look of your feed to the kind of stories you share, every post paints a picture of who you are (or who you'd like your followers to see you as). This is more self presentation than self promotion .

Yet, this technology can impact a person's own understanding of themselves. The temptation to project a picture-perfect life can sometimes overshadow the messy, real moments. It can feel like "everyone else is perfect, so why am I not?"

In the changing online world, one thing stays the same: we always try to show the best side of ourselves. It's about knowing who you're talking to and sharing the right part of you.

But remember, we shouldn't always focus on our self presentation. Sometimes, being genuine and offline is more important in everyday life.

Even though we're often behind screens, finding the right way to do this is both a skill and a careful thought, telling our story bit by bit. Just remember not to get too attached or attempt to control the image you are sharing with the world. You are still you, the bright spots and the challenges

Finding Balance Between Authenticity and Projection

Impression management is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it can be a powerful tool, helping you navigate diverse social landscapes with ease.

On the other, if mismanaged, it can lead to stress, misunderstandings, and even a disconnection from your authentic self. Let's weigh the pros and cons to gain a better understanding.

Since we can't always know the impressions others form, or control the impressions we give, we have to think about how it affects us personally too.

Building Strong Relationships : By understanding what others expect and changing how you act, you can build stronger relationships.

Whether it's fitting into a new place or getting along with coworkers, impression management helps bring different people together.

Achieving Professional Success: In the work world, knowing the unspoken rules is as important as having the right training.

Adjusting how you show yourself, highlighting certain abilities, and getting how the office works can lead to more chances for both the performer and the people around them.

Boosting Self Esteem: When you successfully manage impressions, it can be a confidence booster. Positive feedback, whether in the form of compliments, promotions, or social media engagement, can reinforce a positive self image.

Navigating Social Challenges: If you're fixing an argument or agreeing in a discussion, changing how you talk based on who you're talking to is very helpful. It's about knowing what others think and replying in a way they understand.

Loss of Authenticity: Focusing too much on managing impressions can lead to a disconnect from who you really are. If you're always wearing a mask, it becomes challenging to recognize the face beneath. In other words, being so focused on how others perceive you can make it so you no longer have a real self image.

Mental Exhaustion: Always reading social signs and changing how you act can be tiring. It's like trying to keep many balls in the air and worrying about dropping one. Your impression management strategy could end up confusing your self concept.

Misunderstandings: At times, efforts to manage impressions might backfire. Your attempt to come across as confident could be perceived as arrogance. Or your desire to fit in might seem inauthentic. You can't always control the impressions you leave no matter how effective your self promotion is.

Overdependence on External Validation: If you value yourself based on what others think, you can become easily hurt and lose self esteem. Small criticisms feel bigger, and you rely on others to feel happy.

Handling impression management means knowing when to change and when to stay true to yourself. It's not about pretending but showing different sides of you.

While it's good to think about how you appear, being real and honest keeps you strong in any situation.

Cross-Cultural Perspectives

Western Perspectives

In many Western societies, there's a strong emphasis on individualism. People are often encouraged to stand out, express their unique identities, and advocate for personal beliefs.

Impression management strategies in these contexts often revolves around show personal achievements and talents. Think of personal branding, a concept that's gained traction, especially in the age of digital influencers. It's about carving a niche, highlighting what sets you apart.

Eastern Perspectives

Many Eastern cultures focus on collectivism. Here, the group's needs often come before those of the individual. Harmony, unity, and familial ties play important roles.

In these situations, impression management is about keeping peace in the group and following social norms. For example, at a family event, someone might not talk much about their successes to let others shine too, keeping things fair and balanced.

Middle Eastern and African Perspectives

In several Middle Eastern and African cultures, there's a strong sense of community, tradition, and respect for elders.

Showing respect, understanding hierarchies, and following cultural traditions are essential. For example, in a community event, you might dress in traditional attire and follow specific customs. This isn't just a formality but as a sign of respect and belonging.

Latin American Perspectives

Latin American cultures value warmth, family, and lively social interactions. People focus on real connections rather than just personal success. In these cultures, building trust and shared experiences are important. Thus, there are less intentional impression management strategies.

It's key to understand these cultural differences in today's global world. Whether traveling or working with people from different backgrounds, it helps to know how they manage impressions. While the main idea stays the same, the way it's shown can change based on culture.

Think of impression management as a chameleon that changes colors based on where it is. It helps you fit in and connect with different people around the world.

Impression Management Strategies

Whether you're stepping into a job interview, meeting someone new, or crafting that perfect social media post, knowing how to make a lasting impression is super important.

But remember, it's not about putting on a show—it's about presenting your best self. Here are some practical tips and strategies to guide you on this journey of strategic self presentation.

Self-Awareness is Key

Start by understanding yourself . What are your strengths, weaknesses, values, and aspirations?

Observe and Listen

Before jumping into interactions, take a moment to observe. Understand the the cultural nuances and the expectations of a situation. Listening actively can give you clues about how best to approach a conversation or social interaction.

Adaptability

While staying true to yourself is essential, adaptability is equally important. Adjusting your behavior based on the context doesn't mean being inauthentic; it means being responsive to different social settings.

Clear Communication

Whether in person or online, clear and effective communication is fundamental. Be direct but respectful, ensuring your message gets across without any misunderstandings.

People can usually sense when you are acting fake. So, while you might be managing impressions, make sure you're being sincere. Genuine compliments, active listening, and showing real interest can go a long way.

Consistency Across Platforms

If you're active on various social media platforms, try to maintain consistency in your online persona. While each platform might have its own tone and content type, the underlying essence should remain consistent.

Continuous Learning

Impression management is an evolving skill. Regularly seek feedback, reflect on interactions, and be open to changing your approach. Courses, books, and even personal experiences can be great teachers.

Know When to Step Back

While managing impressions is valuable, there are times when it's best to step back and just be you. Recognize those moments, whether it's unwinding with close friends or spending quiet moments alone.

Use Technology Wisely

In the digital age, tools like filters, editing apps, and even virtual backgrounds can aid in impression management. Use them carefully. Make sure they help rather than hide the real you.

Reflect Often

Set aside time to reflect on your interactions. Did you feel authentic? Were there moments of discomfort? Reflecting can provide insights and guide future engagements.

Impression Management in the 21st Century

Impression management, just like any other human interaction, isn't static. It evolves, shaped by technology, societal shifts, and new cultural dynamics.

Let's explore the potential future trends of impression management strategies and how they might reshape the way we manage impressions.

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)

VR and AR will change how we interact. Imagine joining a global meeting from home. Your online look could be about your chosen avatar and the virtual space you're in.

Valuing Realness

More people, especially the young, are valuing being real over being perfect. This means being yourself might become more important than putting on a show.

Future social media could use AI to show us how others see us, helping us adjust our online image based on feedback.

Mixing Cultures

With the world getting closer, ways of managing impressions from different cultures might mix. Adapting to global views will be essential.

Online Privacy

People are becoming more privacy-aware. This might mean we interact in smaller, private online spaces more than big public ones.

Brain Science

Learning more about the brain might help us understand how we form views of others. This could shape how we try to make impressions.

Blending Work and Personal Life

With more remote work, the line between work and personal life is fading. This could mean we have to be good at switching roles often.

Eco-friendly Images

Caring for the planet is big. Our image might be tied to our eco-friendly choices, like the clothes we wear or the things we buy.

Personal Branding Throughout Life

Showing our journey, from achievements to daily life, might become common, not just for work but for our whole life.

Mindful Interactions

Being mindful is becoming popular. This could mean our interactions become more thoughtful and less planned.

The future of impression management will mix tech, society's values, and personal goals. Even though it's changing, the heart of it is still about making and understanding impressions. It's about keeping it real while adapting to the changing world.

Future research will shed light on how impression construction changes over time. Sociological research doesn't usually include laboratory research, but a literature review that includes both psychological bulletins and looking at self presentation on social media will help us understand impression management techniques.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Impression Management

1. What is impression management?

It's how people try to shape what others think of them, either to look good or fit in. In other words, it's about how we make sure others have the desired impression of us.

2. Who came up with impression management theory?

Erving Goffman did important studies on this, especially in his work "The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life."

3. How do we see impression management daily?

It's in things like our social media posts, the clothes we wear, or how we talk in different situations. Basically, it's in all human behavior.

4. Any negative consequences to impression management techniques?

Yes, focusing on it too much can make you feel fake, tired, misunderstood, or too dependent on others' opinions.

5. How has technology changed impression management strategies?

With things like social media, we now manage impressions not just in person, but also online.

6. Does culture impact impression management theory?

Yes. Different cultures have their own ways of managing impressions based on their values and norms.

7. Any tips for good self presentation, or impression management tactics?

Know yourself, pay attention, adjust to situations, speak clearly, and be genuine. Also, maintaining self control is important.

8. How might impression management change in the future?

New tech like VR and AI, plus changing values about being real and making good choices, will shape it.

9. Why should we care about impression management theory?

It helps us build strong relationships, do well in jobs, and feel good about ourselves.

10. Is impression management just pretending?

No, it's about showing the right side of you for the situation, not being fake.

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