When you smile at someone, they usually smile back. When you extend a warm greeting, they’re likely to respond in kind.

But establishing a genuine connection goes beyond these basics. It demands a certain finesse and understanding of human nature.

Ever met someone who just had that knack for making you feel instantly comfortable? They likely practiced certain behaviors that are remarkable in putting people at ease.

And here’s the kicker – these behaviors can be learned! 

So, let’s dive into the world of first impressions and find out what these behaviors are.

1) Mastering the art of active listening

We all have a lot to say, but have you ever noticed how good it feels when someone genuinely listens?

Listening isn’t just about staying quiet while the other person talks. It’s about engaging, understanding, and showing empathy. It’s about making the other person feel heard and valued.

When you meet someone for the first time, active listening can really set the tone of your interaction. 

It shows that you’re interested in what they have to say, that you value their opinions, and that you’re willing to give them your undivided attention.

And the beauty of that is, people tend to reciprocate the way they are treated. So, if you listen attentively to them, chances are they’ll return the favor.

In an era where everyone is busy and distracted, being a good listener can immediately put people at ease and make them feel comfortable around you.

Sounds simple enough, doesn’t it?

2) Offering genuine compliments

A compliment can go a long way in breaking the ice, but it has to be genuine. People can usually tell when you’re being insincere.

Just the other day, I was meeting a new colleague for the first time. She walked into the room in this bright, eye-catching dress that immediately stood out to me.

Instead of sticking to the usual, “Nice to meet you,” I opened with, “I love your dress; the color looks fantastic on you.” Her face lit up instantly, and our conversation flowed naturally from there.

The compliment was sincere and specific, and it immediately made her feel good about herself. Not only did it put her at ease, but it also set a positive tone for our future interactions.

A compliment is a powerful tool when used right. It can make people feel good about themselves and more open towards you. 

But again, it has to be sincere and specific. So next time you meet someone new, look for something you genuinely appreciate about them and let them know!

3) Using open body language

When it comes to communication, what you don’t say can be just as important as what you do say.

Non-verbal cues like body language can communicate volumes about your intentions and feelings.

Consider the difference between a closed-off posture, with crossed arms and a stiff stance, versus a relaxed posture, with open arms and a friendly smile.

Research shows that the latter is more likely to make people feel comfortable and at ease.

It’s a universal sign of openness and friendliness that transcends cultural boundaries.

A warm smile, comfortable eye contact and open posture can be powerful tools in making a positive first impression.

4) Showing empathy and understanding

Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. It’s a quality that can make people feel seen, heard, and understood.

Imagine you’re meeting someone for the first time and they’re sharing a challenging personal situation with you.

Instead of giving unsolicited advice or trying to fix things, you simply say, “That sounds really tough. I’m here for you.”

This simple statement shows empathy and understanding. It doesn’t try to minimize their feelings or brush off their concerns. Instead, it validates their feelings and communicates that you’re there for them.

In a world where everyone wants to be understood, showing empathy can instantly create a bond of trust and make people feel at ease with you.

5) Being yourself

I believe that authenticity is key when it comes to making people feel at ease. When I meet someone for the first time, I make it a point to be myself, warts and all.

Why? Because people can usually sense when you’re putting on a front. And nothing makes people more uncomfortable than feeling like they’re interacting with a façade.

I’ve found that when I’m genuine, open about my flaws, and unapologetically myself, people respond positively. They feel more comfortable being themselves too, which paves the way for a deeper connection.

Don’t be afraid to be yourself. People appreciate authenticity and it’s one of the quickest ways to put someone at ease.

6) Being comfortable with silence

In a conversation, silence often gets a bad rap. Many of us rush to fill it with words, fearing that it might be perceived as awkward or uncomfortable. 

But here’s a different take on it – silence can actually be a powerful tool in making people feel at ease.

Silence gives people space to think, to process, and to speak when they’re ready. It shows respect for their thoughts and their pace. 

It also communicates confidence on your part, showing that you’re comfortable enough in your own skin to not feel the need to fill every moment with chatter.

7) Expressing gratitude

Expressing gratitude can leave a lasting impression on people. Whether it’s thanking them for their time, a shared insight, or something they did for you, acknowledging their kindness can make them feel valued and appreciated.

Let’s say you’re meeting someone for a casual coffee chat. At the end of the conversation, instead of a generic goodbye, try saying something like, “Thank you for taking the time to meet me today. I really enjoyed our conversation.”

This simple gesture of gratitude can make people feel acknowledged and valued. It leaves a positive impression and makes them more likely to feel at ease with you in the future.

8) Being respectful and kind

At the end of the day, nothing beats basic human decency. Being respectful and kind are fundamental behaviors that can put anyone at ease.

Whether it’s respecting personal boundaries, showing kindness in your words and actions, or simply treating others as equals, these behaviors communicate your good intentions and make people feel safe and comfortable around you.

Remember, every interaction is an opportunity to leave a positive impact. So always choose kindness and respect. They’re the ultimate behaviors that make people feel at ease with you.

Final thoughts on making people feel at ease

Making someone feel at ease when they first meet you is a powerful way to pave the path for meaningful connections. By now, you’ll hopefully have recognized that the behaviors that put people at ease are essentially rooted in empathy, respect, and kindness.

These behaviors are not about manipulation or putting on a performance. They’re about genuine human connection. 

They’re about acknowledging the inherent value in each person you meet and treating them with the dignity and respect they deserve.

So as you step into your next interaction, remember these behaviors.

Not only will they help others feel at ease with you, but they’ll also enrich your own experiences and relationships.

After all, isn’t that what human connection is all about?