How long does it take for someone to form an opinion about you? According to research, just a few seconds. Whether you’re meeting a potential romantic partner, a business client, a new colleague, or any other person in your personal or professional life, it is vital to take control of that first impression and make it a good one. Find out how to do it in just five easy steps.
1. Introduce Yourself
Briefly introduce yourself to the person you meet. Keep the greeting short and informative; include your name, and express how pleased you are to meet the individual.
2. Make Eye Contact
As you greet the person, look him or her in the eye. In many countries, a direct gaze is a sign of openness, friendliness, and respect. You don’t need to stare into their eyes during the entire conversation, but make sure that you don’t look away too often, or you may give the impression of being uninterested or distracted.
3. Speak Distinctly
If your voice is too soft, the other person will have difficulty hearing you; if you’re too loud, you might embarrass others. Practice speaking in a calm, clear voice. If you have trouble pronouncing words clearly because of problems with your teeth, consider visiting a dentist in Singapore who can resolve the issues with your teeth using Invisalign and other well known and effective treatments.
4. Smile Naturally
Smile! A smile is a powerful thing, a symbol associated with positivity, friendliness, and good feeling. According to an American study, 48% of all people in the United States consider the smile to be a person’s most memorable feature after meeting for the first time.
Don’t smile too widely— a huge, forced smile can seem fake or silly and give the other person a negative impression. A small, quick smile makes you seem nervous, which isn’t ideal either. Keep your smile genuine and easy. If you need to, practice a comfortable, friendly smile in the mirror until you get it right.
Did you know that smiling actually sends positive signals through your brain? It actually triggers the release of beneficial hormones that make you feel better. So if you’re nervous, anxious, or upset, a smile may take the edge off.
5. Understand Body Language
You can send positive signals using body language. Smiling, nodding, laughing, gesturing, and an easy stance are all ways to send appropriate social signals. Be aware of the other person’s body language too. Shifting from one foot to another may signal nervousness; glancing away frequently may mean that they are distracted and eager to move on to another conversation. Leaning forward slightly and smiling may indicate that they already like you and would enjoy a longer chat with you.
Solutions for a Dissatisfied Smile
If a patient is self-conscious about his/her smile, there are many options to correct their smile based on their preferences and needs. Besides Invisalign treatment, the dentist could also consider installing implants or porcelain veneers in the construction of the perfect smile makeover.
