In: Operations Management
As individuals, do we have to manage our impression? In the organizations, who is more likely to engage in impression management?
Impression management is a psychological process in which people try to control how they are viewed or perceived by other people or groups. It is characterized as the regulation of ways in which an individual appears or presents himself in a social or work setting. Impression management is used in casual as well as formal situations. It can be used to enhance or manipulate appearance in front of friends, family, colleagues or other individuals that one encounters throughout the day.
It is essential for individuals to manage their impression. Impression management becomes necessary in any situation where the individual is being observed or monitored. It influences how a person thinks about you. Grooming or other forms of basic self-presentation can persuade others to view you in a positive light. In many cases, it is essential to manage oneself according to the norms of the setting, be it a cultural setting or a workplace setting. Neglecting these aspects can prove to be an obstacle, especially if an individual is trying to enhance his or her reputation in the workplace or among his friends.
In the organization, impression management is used by people at every level, and is especially important for leaders. A leader is an individual who runs the organization and has the responsibility to motivate his employees and further the goals of the organization. Hence, to fulfil these responsibilities, the leader needs to create a respectful, commanding, dominating impression in front of his employees. The image of the leader is everything in an organization. It motivates and drives the employees to fulfil the vision of their leader. Hence impression management is essential for leaders and managers in the workplace.
Apart from leaders and managers, it is also important for job applicants to create a positive impression to get selected, and it is also vital for employees looking to advance their careers.