Whether you are about to address a crowd or meet a new colleague, you always want to grab their attention early and make a solid introduction. Career experts say it only takes three seconds to make a judgement the first time you meet someone new, and making a good impression can help you to be perceived in a better light. Here are four ways that great communicators make the most of their first impression:

1. Focus on others. Make it a point to listen more than you talk when you first meet someone. You don’t want to seem self-centered, and you want to make sure that you are paying attention to the other person.
2. Use positive humor.  When you don’t know someone, you can’t assume they have the same sense of humor as you. It’s always best to use positive humor instead of negative humor., which often relies on ridicule. Instead of laughing at the expense of others, make sure to laugh with others, and focus on lifting everybody’s spirits.
3. Do some prep work. Before going into meetings or events, take the time to find out who will be there and to think of some insightful conversation starters and questions.
4. Expect the best. Instead of expecting things to be awkward, envision your interactions going well. It’s important to have a positive outlook and good energy, which help other people to want to interact with you.

Read the full article on making a good first impression by public speaking expert Celeste Headlee here.