Marc Haine argues that first impressions set the tone for everything that follows. Like the opening scene of a play, those initial moments must hook people and convey your organization's story through clear, consistent messaging that goes beyond appearance.
You know that old saying, you never get a second chance to make a first great impression? Well, it's true. Whether you're stepping onto the stage or into a meeting, those first few moments set the tone for everything that follows. Everything that follows. In the theater, the opening scene has to grab the audience's attention. It has to pull them in and make them want to stick around for the rest of the show. In those crucial moments, the audience has to get a sense of who the characters are and what are they there to do. It's the same thing in your business. Your first interaction with a customer, a new hire, or even a team meeting is your opening scene. It's where you set expectations and show people what you're all about. In my years working in hospitality and in leadership, I've really seen how strong first impressions can be a real game changer. It's not just about looking the part. It's about delivering clear, consistent messages that resonate with your audience. In my book Lights! Camera! Action!, I talk about how to make those first moments count. How to set the stage so that everything that follows hits the right note. Because in business, just like in theater, your opening scene can make all the difference in the world. So, next time that you're about to step into a new situation, ask yourself, What story am I telling with my opening scene? And remember, you're not just making an impression, you're setting the stage for what comes next.
