First impressions are everything, especially when it comes to the first appointment with someone. Whether it’s a first date or a first business meeting, we all want to make sure that the person we’re meeting with is genuine and worth our time.

But how can we tell?.

1. Body Language

One of the most important things to pay attention to during a first appointment is body language. This includes facial expressions, posture, and gestures.

If someone is fidgety, avoids eye contact, or seems nervous, it could be a sign that they’re not being genuine. On the other hand, if they seem relaxed and open, it could be a sign that they’re comfortable and confident.

2. Tone of Voice

Another way to tell if someone is being genuine is to pay attention to their tone of voice. If someone is speaking in a monotone or robotic voice, it could be a sign that they’re not really interested in the conversation.

On the other hand, if they’re animated and expressive, it could be a sign that they’re passionate about the topic.

3. Engagement

During a first appointment, it’s important to pay attention to how engaged the other person is in the conversation. If they seem distracted or disinterested, it could be a sign that they’re not really invested in the relationship.

On the other hand, if they’re actively listening and asking questions, it could be a sign that they’re genuinely interested in getting to know you.

4. Authenticity

Another way to tell if someone is being genuine is to pay attention to how authentic they seem. If their words and actions match up with their personality and values, it’s a good sign that they’re being honest and sincere.

However, if their words and actions don’t match up, it could be a sign that they’re not being truthful.

5. Consistency

During a first appointment, it’s important to pay attention to how consistent the other person is in their behavior. If they seem to be changing their story or behavior constantly, it could be a sign that they’re not being genuine.

On the other hand, if they’re consistent in their behavior and what they say, it could be a sign that they’re trustworthy and reliable.

6. Transparency

If someone is being transparent during the first appointment, it could be a sign that they’re being honest and genuine. Transparency means that they’re willing to share information about themselves and their past, even if it’s not always flattering.

On the other hand, if someone is being evasive or secretive, it could be a sign that they’re hiding something.

7. Empathy

If someone shows empathy during the first appointment, it could be a sign that they’re a genuinely caring person. Empathy means that they’re able to understand and relate to your feelings and emotions.

On the other hand, if someone is dismissive or doesn’t seem to care about how you feel, it could be a sign that they’re not genuine.

8. Mutual Respect

A first appointment should be a two-way street. It’s important to pay attention to whether the other person is showing you mutual respect. If they’re dismissive of your opinions or needs, it could be a sign that they’re not genuine.

On the other hand, if they’re respectful of your boundaries and needs, it’s a good sign that they’re a genuine person.

9. Follow-Up

Another way to tell if someone is genuine is to pay attention to whether they follow up with you after the first appointment.

If they make an effort to stay in touch and continue the conversation, it’s a good sign that they’re interested in the relationship. On the other hand, if they disappear or don’t follow up, it could be a sign that they’re not as invested as they claim to be.

10. Gut Instinct

Finally, it’s important to trust your gut instinct during a first appointment. If something doesn’t feel right or if you feel uncomfortable, it could be a sign that the other person isn’t being genuine.

On the other hand, if you feel comfortable and connected, it’s a good sign that the relationship could be worth pursuing.

In conclusion, decoding the first appointment can be tricky, but it’s important to pay attention to body language, tone of voice, engagement, authenticity, consistency, transparency, empathy, mutual respect, follow-up, and gut instinct.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can increase your chances of spotting a genuine person who is worth your time and investment.