There’s a reason why people say you can’t make the first impression twice. If you’re already a famous person, a firm handshake won’t really make the difference. But if you’re on your way up, the first impression and all the details that come with it are vital.
Job position, business deal or just a regular date, the first impression is a chance for you to present yourself in a memorable way to the person you’re having a discussion with. And even though first impressions are something that people don’t always pay attention to, it is extremely important.
It’s similar to body language in a way. You’ve probably seen a video of Presidents and World leaders trying to show dominance using body language techniques. Well, if the world’s most powerful people use to do it, you should do it too!
1Weak handshake
Advertisement
A weak handshake is a bad sign. According to this research, a weak handshake will let people believe that you’re shy, less open and anxious. Now, you don’t want to replicate Trump and his way of shaking hands. Because holding the other person’s hand for too long is not good either. Just make sure you follow the two-second-rule and give a firm handshake.
Image Source: www.independent.ie
2Wrong hand position
Advertisement
We often don’t have a full control of what’s going on with our hands, especially if we’re at a super important meeting. But the important thing that you need avoid is putting your hands in your pockets. That could suggest to the other person that you’re hiding something. You can put your hands on the table, but try not to squeeze them. Squeezing your hands indicates that you’re trying to control the situation.
Image Source: brightside.me
3Chewing gum
Advertisement
Chewing gum is only acceptable if you’re hanging out with your friends. But if you’re at a job interview, chewing gum is a really bad idea. Even if that job position is working as Mickey Mouse mascot at Disneyland.
Image Source: www.studiodentaire.com
4Avoiding eye-contact
Advertisement
Maintaining eye-contact is one of the most important thing when it comes to first impression. You don’t want to look away while you’re having a conversation with someone. Avoiding eye-contact is usually a sign of anxiety. If you want people to judge you as confident and intelligent, make sure you maintain eye-contact when having a discussion.
Image Source: www.lucasworks.ca
5Playing with your hair
Advertisement
When a woman is on a date with a guy she likes, playing with her hair is a sign of flirting. But you don’t want to flirt during a job interview which means you don’t want to play with your hair. On average, women tend to touch or play with their hair up to 18 times a day. Which means that playing with your hair can easily transform into a habit. However, if you want to look professional and focused during important meetings, make sure you keep your hands away from your hair.
Image Source: skopje24.mk