First impressions are made by small things.

Whenever you meet someone new, you are quick to judge his or her personality. You determine whether the person can be trusted or is competent. If you pay attention to some simple aspects, it will help you improve, especially if you wish to further your relationship. Moreover, sometimes major decisions are taken based on your first impression like pursuing a romantic relationship or even offering employment.

Check out how people judge you, based on these small things:

1. Your handwriting

Your handwriting is a window to your personality. Studies indicate that the way you write creates an obvious or sub-conscious impression – small handwriting indicates a shy, meticulous and studious person while people who are outgoing and highly confident tend to have large handwriting. According to the National Pen Company, persons who put more pressure on the pen while writing, take things seriously, while light-handed writers tend to be more sensitive.

2. Your colour 

The colours you choose says a lot about you. People who chose black tend to be sensitive, artistic and attentive to details. Black also dominates and conveys power. While those you choose red, live life to the fullest. Shades of red are worn by people who are proactive, confident and lively. Blue indicates loyalty and hard work. It’s a good colour to wear for interviews. People who choose blue tend to be stable and considerate to others.

3. Biting your nails 

Some bodily-centered habits say a lot about your personality. Habits like pulling your hair or biting nails could give an impression that you are impatient, bored or dissatisfied. Research points out that those who bite their nails tend to be perfectionists, along with being nervous.

4. Your shoes

According to a leading researcher at the University of Kansas in USA, just by examining the make, style, colour and condition of your shoes, people can guess about 90% of the wearer’s personality – such as income, attitude, gender, and even age. Clean and well-maintained shoes go a long way in creating a good impression.

5. Your eyes 

Your eyes are the mirror to your soul. Your eyes can tell a lot about you including what you are thinking and feeling. It can say whether you can be trusted or not, and if you are deceitful or loyal. According to studies, people with blue eyes are less agreeable and more likely to be alcoholics than people who have darker eyes. People who maintain steady eye contact are generally viewed as trustworthy and strong-willed.

6. Your punctuality 

Whether you are early or late for an appointment tells much about your attitude. If you are late for a meeting, it shows that you are not serious about it and creates a negative impression. It indicates you are not organized or self-motivated and do not value other’s time.

7. Your handshake 

A strong handshake exudes confidence and strength. Such people are also likely to be more expressive in nature and are typically extroverts. However, be careful that your handshake is not a bone-cruncher – that may actually indicate low esteem and an insincere attempt at creating an impression. People with feeble handshakes, on the other hand, lack confidence and tend to want the easy way out of life’s challenges. A graceful ‘Namaste’ may actually reflect traditional values of respect, humility and trust. Whether you choose a handshake or a traditional ‘Namaste’ – make sure it is accompanied with a smile.

First impressions last

Remember, the first impression is the most important. It determines whether the other person chooses to pursue his or her relationship with you. Your success at work or in relationships is strongly determined by how people perceive you. Another thing about personal grooming is that it permeates you and actually helps in building self-motivation, confidence and esteem.