We continually hear that first impressions are lasting impressions.

We remember this as we prepare for networking events, job interviews and other first occasions. Businesses, nonprofits and entrepreneurs, of course, are also concerned with favorably impressing consumers and publics.

The impressions we leave, whether fleeting or lasting, evolve from our images and our identities.

Image presents a challenge because it is somewhat superficial. It’s a perception that people have of you, and it may or may not be correct. Whether the image you present is what you intended or created, or it is formed through another person’s perspective, stereotypical notions or rush to judgment, it may not be the real you. This, of course, means that first impressions can be memorable but also misleading or misinterpreted.

That’s why your personal identity surfaces over time as the critical factor. You reflect it in everything you do given your values, ethics, priorities, credibility, and authenticity. Your identity (the true you) becomes your brand…personal or professional. “I can depend on this person or this business for…what…?”

We all know people who present themselves as professional (a loaded word) but disappoint as their identity emerges. I remember a business colleague telling me about a former employee who possessed all of the required professional skills. It turned out, however, that “he was jealous and competitive with co-workers, freely discussed confidential internal matters with everyone, and seemed to forget who was paying him.”

On the flip side, a friend had his car fixed and said something that could apply to any of us. “Yes, my auto mechanic is occasionally grumpy, sometimes the repair takes longer than I thought it would, but he’s honest, knows cars and always does a great job.” My friend valued the bottom line and the real person who always comes through.

There are, of course, introductory meetings that we do not remember. We just know that we now have an ongoing personal, professional or business relationship that’s working. That’s what matters.

Whether we’re concerned about an impression we’ve left or we’re prompted by a specific incident or even a life-changing experience, we all need to periodically reconsider our situations and goals.

Here’s to the true and evolving you.

Before becoming a web designer, Christopher Merrill was an actor. As you might imagine, his experience offers insights on 1st Person PR and the different roles we all assume in life.

Christopher, who began acting professionally when he was 9 years old, explains that “actors must leave their comfort zone and bring everything to the table – emotions, mind, body.” It’s challenging to “recover” or access feelings, capabilities or insights you may have forgotten or didn’t realize you possess. “Acting can be a liberating experience because you can be someone else.” It’s an “opportunity to think in another’s shoes,” something we all should do.

You also have to leave your comfort zone. “It’s the essence of acting,” Christopher explains, “the willingness to jump in and take a leap of faith.”

You do not have to be a professional actor to play a role, use interpretive skills or perform. Christopher reminds us that when we’re sharing stories or experiences with others, we often act them out by changing our voice or using gestures. As we move from one role to another in our lives – work, home, leisure activities – we respond to changing and evolving expectations. Different qualities emerge in each situation.

Actors must listen to and rely on other actors in the performance. “We develop a group dynamic and bonding experience.” Thinking from another person’s perspective is critical whether you’re an entrepreneur, actor, dentist, electrician, or parent. Your success depends on your personal abilities as well as your interaction, cooperation and trust in the group.

Being an actor and observing human behavior has given Christopher critical insights that serve him well as a web designer. He connects with clients’ goals and challenges by asking questions, listening, “reading between the lines,” and encouraging spontaneity and new approaches that can lead to a successful experience.

The result is an on-stage presence that engages the audience while remaining true to the character. It’s 1st Person PR.

Each of us is personally branded even if we do not sport a tattoo. Our 1st Person PR evolves from our beliefs, values and, ultimately, our actions, which, of course, speak louder than words…or elevator speeches.

You may be watching TV’s Undercover Boss about CEO’s who are earning their MBWA degrees (Management By Walking Around). You may also be concerned about nonprofit organizations trying to serve constituents while challenged by budget deficits and strapped donors. We’re all hoping, of course, for an economic turnaround for small business entrepreneurs, large corporations and regular folk.

Everywhere we go, we see 1st Person PR, ours and theirs. An individual’s world view, according to Andy Green, author of Effective Personal Communication Skills for Public Relations, is based on beliefs and values. “Beliefs are things you hold to be true,” Green explains, “even if sometimes faced with evidence to the contrary.” A value, Green adds, “is something you will do even if it hurts” because it is so important to you.

Like everyone, I tune into information on business development, building relationships and networking. It can be very helpful, including recurrent gripes about other people’s lack of reciprocity, poor communication skills, respect, credibility, transparency, honesty and trust. All of us have encountered these issues. While such experiences can be disconcerting or upsetting, they can be potentially rewarding because they prompt you to reconsider your actions and goals. A more objective perspective and world view can open new doors.

None of us is perfect, and we all regret things we did or said. Self-reflection and learning from our experiences, however, increases our understanding and cooperation with each other…for more effective 1st Person PR.

We just have to remember the classic advice: Be true to your beliefs and values, such as honesty and ethics. Build on your strengths. Thank the individuals – personal and professional – who have been and continue to be there for you.

Remember something else our elders said: what goes around comes around?!