Studies tell us that within the first three seconds of meeting a new person, we form an opinion. Three seconds is not very long. You can't say many words. Bright eyes, a friendly smile and a pleasant "Hello, it’s nice to meet you" is about all you can get in. Perhaps most important of all is the smile.

It is said that a picture is worth a thousand words. The next time you meet a new person, think a bit about the snapshot you were left with. You'll see the benefit of smiling, looking pleasant and greeting the other person cordially. Now, what about the three-second picture you have given the other person—is it positive and wholesome? Look in the mirror and practice that smile!