They say you never get a second chance to make a good impression. It isn't just a tired cliché- it's the truth. A first impression can either make or break a personal or professional relationship and it shouldn't be taken for granted.

When meeting someone for the first time, eye contact is essential. People can't resist someone looking deeply into their eyes. It shows them that you are interested in who they are and what they have to say. Your uninterrupted gaze - even if it's just for a few seconds - makes someone feel like the most important person in the world at that exact moment. It's invaluable when they form an opinion about you.

Smile, but don't be too quick to smile. This trick might take a bit of thought at first. You always want to engage people with a warm, encouraging smile, but you don't want them to think that you smile for just anyone. Practice smiling slowly. This will show people that you are genuinely smiling because you either like seeing them or are enjoying what they have to say. Show them that your smile is especially for them and not just for anyone at all.

Don't give them a limp fish. Your handshake is undoubtedly important. Nothing puts someone off like a limp hand. It shows that you lack strength and confidence. Practice a firm handshake that doesn't hurt but that doesn't crumple in the hands of someone else either. Look at your handshake as the first glimpse someone has into who you truly are. Do you want to be frail and easily broken, or do you want to be strong and exude confidence? The message you send through your hands is totally up to you.

Although it's often difficult not to overly worry about the first impressions you are giving off, don't let them rule your social interactions. You want to master the above techniques without looking as though you are following a script. Make them an automatic part of your routine and you'll soon have new friends, business associates and lovers eating out of your hand!