12 Gestures That Make You Make a Bad Impression on Others

Researchers have found that first impressions are made in seven seconds. If you’re interviewing for a job, a manager can decide whether or not to hire you in just half a minute. Avoiding these common mistakes can help you increase your chances of finding a job, making friends, gaining clients, or choosing a spouse:

Shaking hands loosely

A limp handshake is a turn-off on first dates. Research shows that people who give this handshake are perceived as more reserved, anxious, less open, and less competent. Another common mistake people make is holding someone’s hand for too long. If you want to make a good impression, hold it firmly for two seconds.

Hand in the wrong place

Be mindful of where you place your hands when you sit. You can rest them on your lap, but don’t put them in your pockets, as this can make people think you’re hiding something. If you do place your hands on the table, don’t clasp them too tightly or place them palms down, as this suggests you want to control the other person.

Additionally, while placing your hands on the table and making a light fist may be a polite gesture in the West, it is considered rude in Japan and India.

Chew gum

If someone sees you chewing gum for the first time, they may think you are immature and childish. This is especially true in job interviews. However, in less formal settings, gum chewers are often seen as friendly and approachable.

Avoid eye contact

Looking someone in the eye can make a good first impression. Research shows that people who maintain eye contact while speaking and listening are perceived as more confident and intelligent. Conversely, people who avoid eye contact are seen as less sincere, less attractive, and more anxious.

hair play

Playing with your hair can send the wrong signals to the person you are talking to. Although used as a flirting technique, this gesture can also indicate anxiety, low self-esteem, stress, and discomfort. When playing with your hair becomes repetitive and obsessive, it can be a sign of a mental health disorder.

Talking about inappropriate topics

There are some taboo topics to avoid when first meeting someone: health problems, money, religion, ex-bosses or lovers, politics, or personal problems. Try not to focus on talking about yourself and forget to listen to the other person.

Too casual

It is important to maintain a safe distance from people you have just met, and according to researchers, this should be 1.2-3.6m. If you get too close to someone, you may be seen as impolite or rude, while standing too far away shows that you are not interested in them.

Make an annoying noise

Any sound you make, whether it’s tapping your foot, tapping your hand on the table, or cracking your knuckles, can be annoying and distracting. Tapping your knuckles signals stress, anxiety, or impatience, and can also indicate that you’re lying or trying to upset someone. Although knuckle cracking may help relieve stress, it’s one of the most annoying sounds people make, according to a survey fromThe New York Times.

Constantly looking at phone or watch

It’s rude to stare at your screen during a conversation. It shows that you’re not paying attention to the other person or that you’re bored. Research shows that even having your phone on the table near you reduces the quality and focus of the conversation.

Forgot name

It's embarrassing to forget the name of someone you've just met, especially if they remember yours. To avoid this, immediately say the other person's name after they introduce themselves, such as "Hi Anna, nice to meet you." Don't use the excuse that you have a bad memory for names, because if you care about the other person, you'll remember them naturally.

Late

When you arrive late, you come across as untrustworthy, disorganized, and unconcerned about other people's time, and as someone who breaks promises. Trying to manage your time will help you avoid worrying about being late and feeling rushed. Even if you arrive on time, rushing to get there shows that you're not really paying attention to the meeting.

Inappropriate clothing

Statistics show that 55% of first impressions are based on appearance. Some studies show that appearance, weight, height, hair color, and makeup can affect how much you are paid. When meeting someone for the first time, choose smart, neutral clothing and avoid wearing strong perfume.