🛋️ George Clooney's Secret to Making a Killer First Impression on a Panel

It took George Clooney just 60 seconds to win over everyone in the room when he joined via video link on the Graham Norton Show a couple of years back. All he did was this…

It is a devastatingly effective way to make a good first impression; especially if you’re not as famous as George Clooney.

Here’s why:

1. No one will be expecting it 🙂
   So you’re more likely to be remembered. (Most panellists are so focused on their own agendas that they forget about everyone else)
   

2. We naturally warm to those who lift others up ❤️‍🔥
   Especially those who you don’t feel the need to compete for attention.
   

3. Everyone will be more receptive to your ideas 💡
   Because you’ve demonstrated good leadership, humility as well as encouraged reciprocity. In a business context, that’s the kind of stuff that makes people want to work for you.

Not bad for 65 seconds. Have a watch of this… 🍿 

George Clooney’s killer first impression in three simple steps:

1. Do your research on the panellists 🤓
   George Clooney was the most famous person by far. If he isn't too big-time to do the research on the other panellists, then neither are you.
   

2. Set the tone with your opening statement 🪇
   What tone do you want to set? In this particular instance, George chose playfulness - it relaxes everyone on the panel, wins over the room and makes for a more entertaining discussion.

3. Make your compliments specific 🎯
   All too often compliments can feel half-hearted and insincere. George’s don’t because he zeroes in on particular qualities and achievements, which make the recipients feel seen and appreciated.

Panels aren’t everyone’s dream speaking engagement, but they’re an important part of the process. Approach them with the right lens and your name can turn a session from a poorly disguised pr fest into a must see session.

Remember, if you can't light up a panel, you're probably not ready for that keynote. So if you’re speaking at one this week, go get ‘em!

Alex