Off The Record

7 Obvious Secrets To Make Strangers Like You Instantly

Published on January 18, 2019

When you first meet someone, how long do you think it takes you to decide whether or not you two are going to hit it off?

Well, it’s just a matter of 7 seconds and you know if you two will have a mutual liking for each other!

Yes, you read that right – 7 SECONDS! It isn’t too long, right? But you can make them count if you know how to use them wisely.

So here are the 7 things you can do when meeting someone for the first time.

1. It is all about the eye contact

Okay, continuous eye contact can be very uncomfortable but not maintaining it for long enough isn’t good either. Universally, eye contact is a sign of social confidence, openness and honesty.

When you are having a conversation with someone, it is more about the non-verbal and visual cues than it is about the words. It’s why looking into the person’s eyes while talking to them will give you an instant likability boost. However, to refrain from the creepy eye contact zone, follow the 60:40 ratio and you will have nothing to worry about!

2. Smile every once in a while

Whenever you meet someone, ensure you smile and that this smile is genuine! You can only imagine the positive effects it will have on them. I have experienced it myself – you feel so good if someone new meets you with a smile on their face. It’s memorable!

When you smile at someone, it releases endorphins and the person’s mind naturally associates you with feelings of welfare and happiness. Smiling is a gesture of goodwill. Be sure to accessorize every new encounter with a smile from now on!

3. It’s the way you greet them

What makes you start a conversation with a stranger? How do you feel comfortable initiating a conversation with them? It’s a humble greeting! We take it for granted when, in reality, it is what breaks the ice. Some people tend to start a conversation mid-way through.There’s no way you are going to get them to like to you this way.

Make them believe your sincerity by introducing yourself with a simple “hello” or “hi.” Greet them simply and with a smile, and you’re halfway done impressing them!

4. Mirror openness

Even though 7 seconds sound too little to make an impression, you can still establish a lot. If you have a contractive body language, it will make you look like a reserved person and, obviously, most people won’t really be impressed. So, you let them know that you are open and trustworthy.

Make them believe you are all ears. Relax your body language; uncross your arms, unbutton the jacket and stand straight.

5. It’s also about the angles

As we said earlier, it’s more about the nonverbal cues than it is about the verbal conversation. Your body language and gestures will be more meaningful in establishing your impression. You will be fascinated to know the extent of psychological impacts your body language can have on others.

Thus, if you want to convey your interest, lean forward in a way which is hardly noticeable. Imagine they are the only person in the room and listen to them attentively. Your earnestness will shine through!

Another interesting article: If You Experience Any of These 8 Unusual Signs You Are About To Meet Your Soulmate

6. Project positivity

You know how we all have an aura and how it affects our interactions with one another. Make sure your aura is always emitting positive energy during social interactions. Think positive and speak positively. Positivity is contagious!

People love having around those who make this world a better place. When you meet someone for the first time, avoid negative talk. They will remember you for you.

7. It’s not about you – remember that

When we are conscious of meeting someone for the first time, we tend to make a mistake – we make our conversation about us alone. Avoid it! When you make it about you, it sends the signal that you aren’t really interested in them.

So, if you want them to like you, show your genuine interest by asking thoughtful questions – probably about them. Also, listen actively.