Impressions--First & Lasting

“I usually make up my mind about a man in ten seconds, and I very rarely change it.”  Margaret Thatcher, former Prime Minister of United Kingdom.

The old expression “you can’t judge a book by its cover” may be true; but if I don’t like the cover, it will likely keep me from finding out what’s in the book. First impressions are significant for most people. It’s not always fair that we judge people that quickly.  But to have someone want to hear us and learn more about us, we need to make a good impression. 

So, as football officials, how do we make good first impressions? Pastor Harrold Herring wrote in his blog (haroldherring.com) “Seven Ways to make a Godly First Impression”:

1)      Have fun and recognize every moment is an opportunity.  Having fun is just enjoying life using opportunities to have a positive impact on people we come in contact.

2)      Smile.  The Bible makes many references to the positive impact of smiling—Numbers 6:25-26, Psalm 31:16, Psalm 119:135, Psalm 43:5.  Psalm 67: 1 says “May God be merciful and bless us.  May his face smile with favor on us.”

3)      Dress for success.  Right or wrong—the way a person is dressed often forms our opinion of someone. Though not everyone has the means to fine threads, they do have the opportunity to dress their best.

4)      Be on time.  When we are on time, even early, the impression is that we care and that we value the time of others.

5)      Listen.  We will impress people by our ability to listen more than our ability to speak.

6)      Be a diligent worker. Diligent means being quick, prompt, skilled, ready.

7)      Be Genuine.  When we meet or talk with people, be sincere. Don’t be fake.  Look people into their eyes and make sure that moment is dedicated to them—not the next person or activity.

As officials, other people have their eyes focused on us and often we don’t even realize who and when.  Therefore, we need to be conscious of how we represent ourselves, our family, our crew, and other fellow officials.  Truth is, we are always making impressions—good, bad, positive, or negative.  The question is what lasting impression will we make?  Those we are given the opportunity to make positive, lasting impressions with include hotel staff, Uber drivers, athletic staffs, police officers/security, coaches, players, TSA, flight attendants, etc.  Go back to item number one listed above: “…recognize every moment is an opportunity.” Use these opportunities to leave a positive impression.

“People forget what you said, forget what you did, but never forget how you made them feel.”

To leave a positive, lasting impression, put on Colossians 3:12: “Therefore, as God’s people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.”