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Understanding someone’s personality within seconds might sound like a
superpower, but it’s a skill rooted in psychology and observational techniques.
While it’s impossible to fully grasp someone’s character in such a short time,
research suggests that first impressions can provide valuable insights into their
personality traits. Here’s how you can do it, supported by psychological principles:
1. Pay Attention to Body Language
Body language is a powerful indicator of personality. According to Amy Cuddy, a
Harvard psychologist, people often reveal their confidence, openness, and
intentions through nonverbal cues. For example:
Open posture (uncrossed arms, relaxed stance): Suggests confidence and
approachability.
Closed posture (crossed arms, hunched shoulders): May indicate defensiveness or
insecurity.
Fidgeting or lack of eye contact: Could signal nervousness or discomfort.
A 2018 study published in Psychological Science found that people can accurately
judge traits like extroversion and agreeableness based on body language alone.
2. Observe Their Handshake
A handshake can reveal a lot about someone’s personality. Research from the
University of Alabama found that a firm handshake is often associated with
extroversion and emotional expressiveness, while a weak handshake may suggest
introversion or shyness. However, cultural differences should be considered.
3. Notice Their Eye Contact
Eye contact is a key indicator of confidence and engagement. People who maintain
steady eye contact are often perceived as trustworthy and confident, while
avoiding eye contact might suggest shyness or discomfort. A study in the Journal
of Research in Personality found that extroverts tend to make more eye contact
than introverts.
4. Listen to Their Tone of Voice
The way someone speaks can reveal their emotional state and personality traits.
For instance:
A loud, energetic tone may indicate extroversion.
A soft, measured tone might suggest introversion or thoughtfulness.
A hesitant or shaky voice could signal nervousness or insecurity.
A 2017 study in PLOS ONE found that people can accurately judge traits like
dominance and warmth based on vocal cues alone.
5. Look at Their Clothing and Grooming
Clothing choices can reflect personality traits. Research published in Social
Psychological and Personality Science suggests that people who dress in bold,
colorful styles are often more extroverted, while those who prefer neutral,
understated clothing may be more introverted or detail-oriented. Grooming habits
can also indicate conscientiousness and self-discipline.
6. Watch How They Interact with Others
Observing how someone treats others, especially in brief interactions, can reveal
their level of empathy and agreeableness. For example:
Are they polite and considerate to waitstaff or strangers?
Do they interrupt or dominate the conversation?
These behaviors can provide clues about their social skills and emotional
intelligence.
7. Notice Their Smile
A genuine smile (which engages the eyes, known as a Duchenne smile) often
indicates warmth and friendliness. A forced or insincere smile, on the other hand,
might suggest discomfort or inauthenticity. Research from the University of
California, Berkeley found that people who smile genuinely are often perceived as
more trustworthy and approachable.
8. Assess Their Energy Level
High-energy individuals who speak quickly and move animatedly are often
extroverted and enthusiastic. In contrast, those who are more reserved and
deliberate in their movements may be introverted or reflective. This aligns with the
Big Five Personality Traits model, which identifies extroversion as a key dimension
of personality.
9. Look for Microexpressions
Microexpressions are brief, involuntary facial expressions that reveal emotions.
According to Paul Ekman, a pioneer in the study of emotions, these fleeting
expressions can provide insights into someone’s true feelings and personality. For
example, a quick frown might indicate frustration, while a raised eyebrow could
signal surprise or skepticism.
10. Trust Your Gut Instinct
Psychologists have found that humans are surprisingly good at making snap
judgments about others. A study in Psychological Science revealed that people
can accurately assess traits like trustworthiness and competence within seconds
of meeting someone. While these judgments aren’t always perfect, they’re often
based on subconscious cues that align with psychological principles.
Final Thoughts
While it’s possible to glean insights into someone’s personality in just 10 seconds,
it’s important to remember that first impressions aren’t always accurate.
Personality is complex, and snap judgments should be taken with a grain of
skepticism. However, by combining these psychological techniques with further
observation and interaction, you can develop a more nuanced understanding of
the people you meet.
