Positive Impressions into the Future

Sometimes, we don't realize the type of impression we made on someone until years later.  This was recently proven true for me in one of my Toastmasters clubs.  A past guest I never expected to see again not only returned to our club, but signed up as a paid member!

This individual had visited our club years ago to fulfill a requirement given by one of their college courses.  Many such students had come to, spoken in, and left our club.  This was the first time I got to witness one of them come back after graduating.

Why did this person return?  Because they enjoyed the environment of the club and the interactions among the club members.  When asked if they remembered particular members from their prior visits, they expressed that of course they did, smiling as they described a certain member as their "favorite."  While this returning former student may have been buried deep in my memory among all the other students who had come and gone, we were not lost in their mind.  That's because the club members treated them with respect and joy when they first visited us, and that stuck with them enough that it prompted them to join us again years later.

How do you treat people whom you think will only be in your life temporarily?  Do you strive to leave a positive impression even if you aren't sure it will have a lasting impact?  This guest to return guest to member experience reminded me that every interaction matters.  Even if you don't expect to see someone again in the future, you should still be welcoming and supportive.  Treat them like they matter - because they do!  Leaving a positive impression can have a positive impact months or even years into the future.