Meeting new people can be exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time. It's important to make a positive impression and build a good rapport with them. Here are some do's and don'ts to keep in mind when meeting new people:
Do's:
Be approachable and friendly: Smile, make eye contact, and have an open body language to show that you are receptive and interested in meeting new people.
Introduce yourself with confidence: Offer a firm handshake (if culturally appropriate) and clearly state your name when introducing yourself.
Listen actively: Show genuine interest in what the other person is saying. Pay attention to their words and avoid interrupting them.
Ask questions: Engage in conversation by asking open-ended questions about their interests, hobbies, and experiences.
Be respectful and polite: Treat others with kindness and courtesy, regardless of their background or beliefs.
Find common ground: Look for shared interests or experiences that can help establish a connection.
Give compliments sincerely: If you notice something positive about the person, feel free to offer a genuine compliment.
Be yourself: Authenticity is essential in building meaningful relationships, so be true to who you are.
Follow up: If you exchange contact information, consider reaching out afterward to maintain the connection.
Don'ts:
Don't dominate the conversation: Allow the other person to speak and share their thoughts. Avoid talking excessively about yourself.
Don't judge or stereotype: Avoid making assumptions about people based on their appearance, background, or interests.
Don't invade personal space: Respect others' personal boundaries and maintain an appropriate distance during the interaction.
Don't be overly critical or negative: Refrain from being overly critical or complaining about various topics during the initial meeting.
Don't brag or boast: While sharing accomplishments is fine, excessive bragging may create a negative impression.
Don't use offensive language or jokes: Be mindful of your language and humor to avoid unintentionally offending others.
Don't be pushy or aggressive: Respect the other person's comfort level and avoid pressuring them into sharing personal information.
Don't multitask: Give the person your full attention and avoid distractions like checking your phone or looking around.
Don't be too reserved: While it's okay to be cautious, being too reserved can come across as disinterested or aloof.
Remember that each interaction is unique, and the key is to be genuine, respectful, and considerate of others' feelings. With time and practice, you'll become more comfortable and adept at meeting new people.