10 seconds--That's how much time you have to make a good first impression.
Research shows that those same 10 seconds also determines whether you'll have lasting ties with this person. So, here's how to make those first few seconds count:
- For example, when you first meet someone and shake their hand, say to yourself "Great!" and make a note of their eye color. That's from Nicholas Boothman, author of How to Make Someone Love You in 90 Minutes or Less. Saying "great" triggers a physical reaction that actually makes you smile, which makes you seem warm and interested. And looking at eye color forces you to make eye contact, which is the non-verbal equivalent of saying "I like you."
- Then, raise your eyebrows when you say, "Nice to meet you." It makes your words seem heartfelt. And if they raise their eyebrows in return, it's a sign they feel instant rapport. Why? According to the Center for Nonverbal Studies, when someone likes you, they mirror your gestures.
- And finally, during that first conversation, raise your hand to chest level, palm up for 2 seconds to emphasize a point. According to a study at the University of Washington, slightly narrowing the space between you makes them feel emotionally closer to you. And holding your hand palm up shows you have nothing to hide.
