Impression management

Definition

Impression management is the process through which individuals attempt to control how they are perceived by others, particularly in social interactions. This concept plays a significant role in how people present themselves in both real and virtual settings, influencing their virtual identity and self-presentation. By carefully curating their online personas, individuals can shape others' perceptions to align with their desired image or reputation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Impression management is often used strategically to enhance one's social status or professional opportunities, especially on platforms like LinkedIn or Instagram.
2. In virtual environments, individuals can manipulate their appearance and the information they share, making it easier to create a polished image.
3. Research shows that online interactions may encourage individuals to exaggerate their traits or achievements to maintain a favorable impression.
4. Different contexts can lead to varied strategies for impression management, as individuals adjust their self-presentation based on audience expectations.
5. Failure to manage impressions effectively can lead to negative consequences, such as being misjudged or facing backlash from peers.

Review Questions

• How do individuals utilize impression management techniques in virtual settings to influence others' perceptions?
  • In virtual settings, individuals employ various impression management techniques such as selectively sharing information, curating photos, and engaging in specific online behaviors. By presenting an idealized version of themselves, they aim to create a favorable impression that aligns with their goals. For example, someone might only post positive life updates or achievements to highlight their success and attract admiration from others.
• What challenges does impression management present when individuals seek authenticity in their online identities?
  • Impression management can create a conflict between the desire to appear socially desirable and the pursuit of authenticity. Individuals may struggle with presenting an exaggerated or filtered version of themselves, leading to feelings of inauthenticity. This disconnect can foster anxiety and pressure to maintain a crafted persona that may not genuinely reflect one's true self, complicating personal relationships and self-acceptance.
• Evaluate the implications of impression management for personal branding and its impact on career advancement in today's digital age.
  • Impression management plays a crucial role in personal branding, as individuals curate their online identities to enhance career prospects and professional relationships. In today's digital age, employers often search for candidates online before making hiring decisions, making effective impression management essential. However, overemphasizing curated personas can lead to misrepresentation and potential disillusionment if one's actual qualifications do not match their online image. Thus, finding a balance between showcasing strengths and maintaining authenticity is vital for long-term success.

Related terms

Self-Presentation: The act of consciously or unconsciously presenting oneself to others in a way that creates a desired impression.

Social Media Persona: The curated identity that individuals create on social media platforms, often reflecting specific aspects of their personality or lifestyle.

Authenticity: The quality of being genuine and true to oneself, which can be challenged in the context of impression management.