The power of a smile
Smiling is contagious. When people smile, it triggers reciprocation and it always creates a great first impression.
A smile is more valuable than the clothes you wear. When you make a conscious effort to smile throughout the day, you will be remembered by others in a positive way.
Making eye contact and smiling at a stranger says, “I am happy to greet you today.” Even if that person is having a bad a day, you will probably receive a smile back. And just think: you may even improve their mood. If you don’t speak the same language as the other person, it doesn’t matter. Your smile speaks all languages. It breaks down barriers.
When I interview candidates for a job, the first thing I look for is a big bright smile. It tells me that the applicant is happy and motivated. It demonstrates confidence.
Recently, I was taking an aqua-fit class in my neighborhood. At the swimming pool there were numerous young lifeguards in their late teens and early 20s; students working part-time. During the aqua-fit class there was usually a rotation of three lifeguards -- one every 20 minutes during the hour-long class.
Inevitably when doing repetitive exercises, my eyes would wander over to the guards. It was interesting to see who would smile when I made eye contact with them. There was one lifeguard who always looked miserable. It just seemed like he did not want to be there. Every week it was the same look. I thought to myself, “I would never consider hiring him for a job.”
If you want to experiment with smiling, try smiling at people when you enter an elevator. Most often people are absorbed in their personal thoughts, and usually are wearing earphones listening to music. If you actually smile and say, “good morning” you would be surprised to see that some people will return greetings.
When I am walking around my neighborhood, I always smile when someone crosses my path. I inevitably receive a smile in return, which tells me that the world does have happy people in it. Often, the person will add a nod. It shows that they acknowledged me and my smile.
People can actually sense a smile on the phone. Try it. Next time you talk to someone on the phone, smile as you speak. Your tone will surprisingly be happier and so will your conversation.
A positive attitude in life is important. It helps at work, it helps with relationships, and it helps to get through rough patches. Smiling is the first ingredient to a positive attitude.
There are all kinds of scientific studies that say smiling reduces stress, smiling boosts the immune system, smiling reduces blood pressure and smiling makes you appear younger. The reality is that smiling simply makes you feel good about yourself.
The world will be a better place because you read this today and hopefully you will smile more often at the people around you.
Shelly Bayless Fabian, BA 1974, is a graduate of Concordia University, a committed volunteer for community organizations, a public relations professional and translator.