Impressions Create Expressions
Introduction
In the context of organisational culture and individual performance, the saying “impressions create expressions” significantly shapes subsequent behaviours. Research in organisational behaviour suggests that these impressions—shaped by leadership—have a profound impact on overall performance.
Leadership
Leaders play a critical role in both shaping these impressions and cueing others to do the same. Individuals form impressions based on a leader’s actions, tone, and attitude, which then influence to what level they can trust, commit, and engage. When leaders demonstrate power skills such as empathy, active listening, and effective communication, they foster a positive culture. This creates an environment where individuals feel valued, leading them to express higher levels of creativity, collaboration, and accountability in their work.
Power Skills
Power skills like emotional intelligence, adaptability, and teamwork are essential for creating the initial positive impressions that drive performance-enhancing expressions. When employees perceive that they are in a psychologically safe space, where their ideas are encouraged and respected, and they are supported emotionally, they are more likely to express positive behaviours such as proactive problem-solving, openness to feedback, and resilience.
Language
Language in an organisational setting is a powerful, and often undervalued, tool. Inclusive, respectful language that reinforces the organisation’s values creates a culture of belonging. Furthermore, leadership that models constructive language (ideally spoken and not typed) helps reduce misunderstandings and foster a clearer and more cohesive work environment.
Long-Term Benefits to Team Performance
Nurturing this space where impressions lead to positive expressions has compounding benefits over time. As leaders and team members consistently exhibit behaviours that create positive impressions, the organisational culture becomes one of trust, mutual benefit and high performance. Teams that operate in such an environment are more likely to achieve better results because of their enhanced communication, deeper collaboration, and mutual respect.
In conclusion, impressions are the foundation upon which team dynamics and performance are built. By consciously creating positive impressions through leadership behaviours, language, and power skills, organisations can cultivate a culture that enhances both individual and team performance. Over time, this investment in culture yields far greater employee satisfaction, innovation, and overall success.
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