How to Bounce Back from a Bad First Impression

culled from:wikihow.com

Method 1 of 2: Recovering after the "failed joke"

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   Don't beat yourself up - Realize that everyone makes mistakes, and at some point in their life says or does something they wish they hadn't. Try not to magnify the situation in your head. 

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   If an awkward silence begins, close it with a self-deprecating phrase such as "It sounded funny in my head"; or "Wow, that wasn't funny at all". Then be sure to quickly move on to something else.
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   Wait a little while until you try another joke again.

Method 2 of 2: Recovering after making an inadvertent offence

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   Avoid trying to justify what's been said. This could cause even a greater problem for you.
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   Apologize to the person you offended with sincerity.
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   Walk away and go get a drink, or use the restroom, giving the person some space.
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   Towards the end of the gathering, approach the person again and, when there is nobody around you, offer another sincere apology. More times than not the person will accept your apology and everyone can move on!