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Two Methods:Recovering after the "failed joke"Recovering after making an inadvertent offence

Don't you just hate it when you are first meeting someone and you leave the person with a horrible first impression? Reading this simple how-to will give you the instructions you need to bounce back after a bad first impression.

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EditMethod 1 of 2: Recovering after the "failed joke"

  1. Bounce Back from a Bad First Impression Step 1.jpg
    1
    Don't beat yourself up - Realize that everyone makes mistakes, and at some point in their life says or does something they wish they hadn't. Try not to magnify the situation in your head.
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  2. Bounce Back from a Bad First Impression Step 2.jpg
    2
    If an awkward silence begins, close it with a self-deprecating phrase such as "It sounded funny in my head"; or "Wow, that wasn't funny at all". Then be sure to quickly move on to something else.
  3. Bounce Back from a Bad First Impression Step 3.jpg
    3
    Wait a little while until you try another joke again.

EditMethod 2 of 2: Recovering after making an inadvertent offence

  1. Bounce Back from a Bad First Impression Step 4.jpg
    1
    Avoid trying to justify what's been said. This could cause even a greater problem for you.
  2. Bounce Back from a Bad First Impression Step 5.jpg
    2
    Apologize to the person you offended with sincerity.
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    3
    Walk away and go get a drink, or use the restroom, giving the person some space.
  4. Bounce Back from a Bad First Impression Step 7.jpg
    4
    Towards the end of the gathering, approach the person again and, when there is nobody around you, offer another sincere apology. More times than not the person will accept your apology and everyone can move on!
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EditTips

  • When apologizing to someone be sure to keep it brief.

EditWarnings

  • Don't let there be awkward silences linger. Try to move onto something new.

EditSources and Citations

  • VideoJug.com Original source of this information. Shared with permission.

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Article Info

Categories: Managing Conflict and Difficult Interactions

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