When you want to make a positive emotional impact on others, start with a smiling face because a smile is often regarded as an invitation. It says “I’m friendly and approachable.”

It’s the quickest and most effective way to connect with someone new. It takes three hours of continuous interaction to develop the same rapport you get with a single handshake.

This is the key to establishing a connection, transmitting energy and indicating interest and openness. When someone is looking at you, you’re more likely to engage with them.

Reach out and touch the other person’s forearm, for example, for a fraction of a second. Humans are programmed to feel closer to someone who’s touched us. It’s a compelling force and even momentary touching can create a bond.

A confident posture can enhance how assured you are in your own beliefs and lead to you making a better impression. You’ll rate yourself more positively if you’re nodding or sitting up straight rather that shaking your head or slouching.

If your nerves are racing, adopting an open, expansive pose can make you feel more powerful. Opt to raise your chin the next time you enter a room, and you’ll instantly appear more captivating.

Show you’re engaged by leaning in slightly but always respect their space. To gain trust, uncross your arms and legs and use open palm gestures to show you have nothing to hide. Also, try mirroring the body language of the other person. We tend to trust those who remind us of ourselves.