What is the ultimate goal of impression management?

The ultimate goal of impression management is to influence the way we are perceived by others. This concept revolves around the strategic control of the image one projects, which can significantly affect interpersonal relationships and professional dynamics. By focusing on how one is perceived, individuals can cultivate favorable impressions that can lead to more positive interactions and opportunities.

Establishing a personal brand, while related to impression management, is a narrower aspect of it. Personal branding specifically focuses on how individuals want to present themselves based on their values and desired reputation, but it doesn’t encompass the broader concept of managing various perceptions depending on the context.

Manipulating others' perceptions may imply a deceitful intent rather than a strategic, authentic presentation of oneself. While people do engage in managing impressions to achieve certain perceptions, the ethical implications of manipulation can differ from the genuine expression of one's attributes and values.

Avoiding accountability does not align with the foundational principles of impression management. Instead, effective impression management involves presenting oneself in a way that fosters trust and credibility, rather than evading responsibility for one’s actions or decisions. Thus, the primary aim is to positively shape other people's perceptions rather than to dodge accountability.