How to Make a Good First Impression

 

1
Be confident and outgoing. When a person realizes someone has those qualities, they find them easier to talk with and much more welcoming. Maybe if you are in junior high, shaking hands may not be the thing to do, but for anyone else, shake hands. If you are culturally aware that some groups do not touch the opposite sex, you may opt out of shaking hands, but in America, most people shake hands. 

Don't be afraid to say hello to new people.

Smile and wave.

 

2
Proper posture is imperative. Body language can tell someone a lot about your mood and confidence level. Slouching is a no-no as it gives the impression of insecurity and defeat. You must always stand straight and tall, possibly with a hand on your hip, if you want to convey to someone that you are a strong, confident, deserving individual. 

 

3

Never fidget. Keep your hands to your side or in your lap. Never bite your fingernails, twirl your hair or crumple a napkin in your hand. Remember to never over do it though or you may look boastful and spoilt.

4

Relax. Posture is very important, but you don't want to look like a robot, either. Sit up straight, but don't be so rigid that you'd fall over if pushed. It's like when people say that an animal can smell your fear; people can tell if you're nervous. Just be yourself. Don't try to impress someone, let your real personality do the work.

5

Smile. Especially when first meeting someone. It's not necessary to show your teeth, just a meaningful grin will do. Be careful not to transition from a smile to a straight face too quickly, or people will sense you're being fake or that you don't like them. Make sure you let the other person speak too, there is nothing more people hate then someone who talks non-stop.

6

Make eye contact. Stay focused on the person you are speaking with and certainly not on anything else to avoid them feeling unappreciated and unwanted. Often if the person has an eye problem, like an eye that turns in, you're put off by this. Instead, focus on the person's nose or mouth.

7

Dress appropriately. Always be genuine and show your unique personality. Whether this includes latest fashion is up to you. You want to make a first impression about yourself, so be yourself. Just think about your cleavage or skirt length (if you're a woman), or cleanliness of the clothes. Be conscious of your accessories and what they will say about you.

8

Have a sense of humor. People who try to be funny are NOT funny. Truly funny people are just themselves and the wittiness shows. Don't use lame jokes or lines.

9

Be interesting. Use some common sense when speaking. Most ladies aren't going to be interested in someone who stands there talking about his last fight in the bar or how many beers he can drink. Similarly, most guys aren't going to want to listen to stories about cute things your puppy did or how much you like shoes. You're trying to attract the other person. Intrigue them. Keep them interested. Some good things to talk about:

• Interesting facts or advice.
• Music or movies.
• Questions
• However never be rude about the persons beliefs, religion or ethnicity.

10

Concentrate on getting the person to talk about himself or herself. "So, what do you like to do in your downtime?" A nice comment about appearance is also appropriate -- that's a lovely color for you -- is okay between females. If there is nothing nice to say, don't say anything at all! People can tell your lying easily and it will obviously hurt a lot.

11

Find your connection. At a party, you can ask how the other person knows the host and explore that topic a bit.

12

If you're on a job interview, know something about the company! In fact, know as much as you possible can about it. Cover your tattoos. Bosses aren't big into them and neither are customers in most businesses. This doesn't mean that you should act like a know it all

13

If your teeth are in disrepair, find a way to get them back into shape. Bad teeth are a turn off. You might want to even get a second job to finance dental repairs -- bad teeth really are a turn off. Get braces if your teeth are wonky and remember to brush your teeth at least twice a day to makes sure you have good breath.

 

14

Go easy on the perfume or cologne. This is self-explanatory. Remember the famous saying "a little bit goes a long way" rather than "too much is never enough". You may love the scent you are wearing; however, it could easily offend others or cause a reaction to their allergies, if applicable. In this regard, it is probably better to wear none at all or, if you must, then spray it into a distance and wait a few seconds before walking through the sprayed area.

15

Use good hygiene. This is super important, especially for teens. This may seem overly basic, but always shower daily and wear clean, fresh clothes. Also equally important, you should brush your teeth twice daily and be sure to wear deodorant and/or antiperspirant, if needed, especially if you're meeting someone important who is likely to make you nervous. If your a girl, wear a little concealer if needed. No other makeup because it's usually a turn off. If it is a special occasion, add some lipstick/lipgloss, mascara and maybe some eyeliner or eyeshadow.

 

16

Close on a good note. Keep them wanting more. Show that you had a really good time and would like to see them again. Maybe even text them saying so when you get home. People on a first date not only want to have a good time, but they want to know that you did as well. They want that reassurance. Don't be over clingy though!

17

Be yourself. Don't pretend to be someone you're not, or you are stuck with that label forever. Be yourself. That may be what everyone says but it is entirely true! Never lie to anybody about yourself and always be honest. If somebody finds out you have been lying to him or her, they will be very hurt and it will be hard for them to forgive you easily.

18
Remember the name of the people you meet. When introduced, used the person's name: "It's so nice to meet, you Bob." If the name is unusual, you might even ask them to spell their name, "As a way to help me remember you." 

 

19

Have a conversation about something appropriate in the situation. At your new job, ask your colleague how long he has worked there. At the bus stop talk about the weather. Remember what people have told you, maybe ask more questions about some subject. (e.g.: "You have worked here for a year? What did you do before?" or "Where did you live before?")

20

Never brag. This includes namedropping.

21

Talk about your interests and hobbies. Ask the other person about what their hobbies are - it's always a great conversation starter! Ask if they like a specific band or singer. The more you have in common, the easier it will be to carry on the conversation.

22

Stay positive. When you put down a third party, the other person realizes they are next. Never, ever discuss past relationships on a first date. It's too personal a topic. If someone asks, say "I'd much rather learn about you and what interests you."

 source:wikihow.com