As we prep for Day 1 of testing at the NHL Combines, many of the players have already undergone several interviews with prospective teams. These interviews are opportunities for GMs and Player Directors to get to know the players on a personal level. Teams have had plenty of opportunities to evaluate a prospects playing ability, yet most have not had a chance to meet with players in a 1-on-1 setting. Thus, creating a great first impression is paramount and could be a key factor in getting drafted.
The ability to create a good first impression is something that everyone should aspire to do. You want to be yourself, present yourself appropriately, be polite, smile, and be confident.
As many of you will be attending summer college camps, showcases, tournaments, and visiting colleges this summer, it is essential that you carry yourself appropriately. The college hockey coaching world is small and coaches talk to each other about prospects all the time. So its important to work hard, compete, and be on your best behavior at all times – you never know who might be watching. You only have one chance to make a good first impression and whether or not people admit it, they are judging you and forming an opinion of you the moment you first enter their lives.