put one's best foot forward
Make strong impression
To put one's best foot forward is to make the most favorable impression possible, presenting oneself in the best light: She put her best foot forward at the interview.
The phrase suggests deliberate effort to appear capable, attractive, or professional, especially when stakes are high: First day on the job—time to put your best foot forward.
- first impressionInstant assessment of someone
- make an entranceArrive dramatically, memorably
- poiseGraceful, unshakable calm
- confidenceSelf-assurance or trust
- professionalismWorkplace conduct standards
firm handshake · etiquette · diligence · charisma · personal branding · walk · enthusiasm · effort · self-assurance · presentation skills · polish · style · step · networking · stance · stride · resolve · deportment
put one's best foot forwardphone it in
Perform with minimal effort
mail it in · go through the motions · slack off · dog it · not give a damn
put one's best foot forwardcut corners
Reduce effort or cost improperly
not give a damn · let oneself go · throw caution to the wind
put one's best foot forwardlet it all hang out
Act without inhibition
warts and all · be oneself · show one's true colors · lay one's cards on the table · bare one's soul