Everyone, even the most confident of people, has moments where they feel nervous, anxious, and unsure. But, confident people know how to handle those moments and use their nervous energy to their benefit.
1. Make eye contact. Maintaining eye contact while you are talking, as well as when the other person talks, is a sign of confidence and interest. Never check your phone, stare at the floor, or keep scanning the room. This can make you appear rude, anxious, or even discomforting. Try to keep eye contact for at least half of your interaction.
2. Shake hands firmly. A solid handshake can instantly make you seem confident and self-assured. Extend your hand to offer the handshake as you approach someone. Grip the other person's hand firmly, but not painfully. Pump up and down slightly for two or three seconds, then release.
3. Speak slowly and clearly. If you tend to jumble words in an attempt to rush through what you're saying, slow down. Pausing a second or two before you speak gives you time to plan your response, making you appear more relaxed and confident.
4. Smile often. Smiling can instantly make you appear warm, friendly, and approachable. Studies have shown that people like and remember other people that smile at them. If you have trouble keeping a natural smile, just flash a brief smile and return to a more neutral expression.
5. Stop apologizing. If you find yourself constantly apologizing, even for trivial things, break out of the cycle. You'll learn to feel and act more confident. Tell your close friends you're working on this. After you apologize to one of them needlessly, say "wait, no, I don't need to apologize!" If you can joke about it with them, it may reduce your fear of insulting someone.
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