15 Behaviors to Avoid When Meeting New People to Make a Great Impression

First impressions matter, and when meeting new people, small behaviors can make a big difference in how likable we come across. Sometimes, we might not even realize that certain actions can push people away or make us seem uninterested, rude, or self-centered. 

By paying attention to some common social missteps, you can help ensure that you’re making a positive impression. Here are 15 behaviors that can make you seem unlikable to others—and tips on how to avoid them.

Talking Only About Yourself

One of the quickest ways to come across as self-centered is by dominating the conversation with your own stories and experiences. When meeting someone new, they’re likely interested in a back-and-forth exchange. 

If you’re only talking about yourself, it can make them feel like their thoughts and experiences aren’t important. Aim to ask questions, listen actively, and give them a chance to share, too. This balance helps build a natural connection. Remember, a little curiosity about others goes a long way.

Not Making Eye Contact

Avoiding eye contact can make you seem disinterested or even dishonest. While everyone gets a little nervous in social situations, looking people in the eyes can show respect and attentiveness. 

If you’re constantly looking away, it can make the other person feel like you aren’t paying attention or aren’t interested in the conversation. Making natural eye contact conveys warmth and helps build trust. Practice maintaining eye contact to help people feel valued when you speak to them.

Interrupting Constantly

Interrupting someone while they’re talking can be very off-putting. It suggests that you’re not really listening or that you think what you have to say is more important. People appreciate being able to express their thoughts without being cut off. 

When you allow others to finish their points, you’re showing respect for their ideas and fostering a better conversation. Pause before responding, to make sure they’re finished talking. This way, you’re giving each other the chance to fully share thoughts.

Using a Phone Mid-Conversation

Checking your phone while someone is speaking to you can be incredibly distracting. It gives the impression that the person you’re with isn’t as important as whatever is on your screen. This behavior can make others feel unappreciated and unheard. 

If you absolutely must check your phone, apologize and explain the reason before doing so. In general, keep your phone away during conversations with new people to show you’re fully present. Showing full attention helps build a good rapport from the start.

Complaining Excessively

Constantly complaining, especially when meeting someone for the first time, can create a negative atmosphere. While it’s natural to express frustrations occasionally, excessive complaining can be draining for others. 

People tend to feel more positive around those who look on the bright side. When you focus on the good aspects of a situation, it shows that you’re resilient and optimistic. This doesn’t mean you can’t ever mention problems; just try to balance it out. Positivity is contagious and helps create a pleasant impression.

Bragging About Achievements

Talking about accomplishments occasionally is fine, but constantly bragging can come across as arrogant. When people meet you, they’re often more interested in your character than in a list of your achievements. Instead of highlighting your successes, ask questions about the other person’s interests and achievements. 

This shows humility and interest in others, which makes you more likable. Be open about your experiences without using them to try to impress. A humble attitude is much more memorable.

Being Overly Sarcastic

While some sarcasm can be funny, overdoing it can make people feel uncomfortable or even hurt. When meeting someone new, they may not understand your sense of humor, especially if it’s heavy on sarcasm. 

Excessive sarcasm can come across as insincere or even dismissive. Try to gauge the other person’s response to your humor style, and adjust if needed. Keep things light and positive to create a friendly impression. This helps to ensure that your humor isn’t misunderstood.

Making Critical Remarks

Being overly critical, especially of others, can make you appear judgmental. People are often put off by those who seem to have a negative opinion about everything. When you meet someone new, they’re more likely to be drawn to positive and supportive attitudes. 

Try to avoid harsh judgments and focus on the positive instead. Being kind and accepting makes people feel comfortable around you. Remember, it’s easier to connect when others feel you won’t judge them.

Failing to Listen Actively

Nodding along without really paying attention can make you seem disengaged. Active listening involves not only hearing words but also understanding the meaning behind them. People can usually tell when someone is genuinely interested versus when they’re just going through the motions. 

Respond thoughtfully and ask follow-up questions to show you’re truly engaged. When others feel heard, it creates a stronger connection. Active listening is a simple way to show you care about what they’re saying.

Invading Personal Space

Everyone has a comfort zone, and standing too close to someone can feel intrusive. Respecting personal space helps people feel safe and comfortable around you. If you notice the person stepping back or seeming uneasy, it might mean you’re too close. 

Aim to give at least an arm’s length of space unless you’re in a very crowded area. Respecting physical boundaries is an important part of social etiquette. It shows that you’re aware and considerate of others’ needs.

Being Overly Agreeable

Agreeing with everything the other person says, even when you don’t truly feel that way, can come across as insincere. People appreciate honesty and authenticity in conversations. It’s okay to respectfully share a different opinion, as this can actually make the conversation more interesting. 

Just remember to keep it respectful and open-minded. When you’re authentic, people feel they’re getting to know the real you. This honesty is often more attractive than forced agreement.

Talking Too Loudly

Speaking too loudly can make others feel uncomfortable or overwhelmed. In social settings, a gentle, moderate volume can create a more pleasant atmosphere. Loud talking can come across as overbearing, especially in quiet environments. 

Being mindful of your volume shows respect for others’ comfort. This awareness can make your interactions feel calmer and more enjoyable. When you control your volume, people may be more inclined to listen to you.

Using Jargon or Complicated Language

Using technical language or overly complicated words can make it hard for others to follow the conversation. When meeting someone new, it’s best to keep things simple and accessible. If they’re unfamiliar with certain terms, they might feel left out or intimidated. 

Focus on clear, friendly language that invites open conversation. This approach makes it easier for everyone to connect and understand each other. Avoiding jargon helps make a better, more inclusive first impression.

Failing to Smile

A smile goes a long way in making you seem approachable and friendly. Meeting new people can be a little tense, but a warm smile can help break the ice and put others at ease. Failing to smile might make you seem uninterested or even unfriendly.

Smiling shows that you’re happy to be there and open to connecting. It’s a simple gesture that can make a big difference in how others perceive you. Smiling sets a positive tone right from the start.

Not Saying “Thank You” or Showing Appreciation

Neglecting to show gratitude can make you come across as unappreciative. Simple gestures like saying “thank you” or acknowledging a kind act can make others feel valued. When meeting new people, showing appreciation, even for small things, goes a long way in creating a positive impression. It shows that you recognize and value others’ actions. 

Remember to express gratitude when appropriate, as it’s a universal way to show respect. Being polite and appreciative creates a strong, positive foundation for new connections.

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