First impression is fast, mainly determined by a person’s non-verbal gestures/body language & largely permanent.

In a TEDx talk by Alfred Netto, a published author of the book ‘Habitude’ which can be found in Malaysia bookstores, a Professional Certified Coach credentialed by the International Coach Federation (ICF), and a Certified TRAIT Personality Assessor by the Aston Business School in the United Kingdom, he shared 5 helpful strategies to influence someone in 30 seconds.

Let’s dive right in.

#1 Genuine Smile

Genuine vs. Fake Smile

Source: The Guardian

Most of us are able to distinguish between a genuine smile and a fake smile. If you can differentiate other people’s fake smile, don’t you think other people can differentiate yours too? Here’s how to ‘fake’ a genuine smile:

1. Squinting eyes
2. Higher cheekbones
3. Wider lips

#2 Eye Contact

Source: Rachel Beohm

Many researchers found that by having eye contact with a person, you can connect with the person and the person will trust you more, like you more, whether in a personal one-to-one or a presentation setting. Here’s how:

1. Never ever stare
2. Don’t move your eyebrow
3. The ‘Triangle Technique’

 

#3 Power Pose

Source: Lifehack

Standing with a power pose for 2 minutes can change the chemicals in your body. Your cortisol/stress levels will drop while your testosterone levels go up and you’re much more confident. Now strike that power pose!

#4 Handshake

Source: The Independent

To design an unforgettable handshake, you got to offer the handshake first. Another point to take note is to give a warm handshake (not sweaty handshake!).

#5 ‘I Am Like You’

Source: SlideShare

The more common ground you find with someone, the more they like you. This naturally increases your chances of influencing him or her.