Have you ever met someone and felt like something was off, but couldn’t quite explain why? Learning how to read people can help you spot these subtle warning signs before it’s too late. Maybe you’ve trusted someone, only to realize later they were nothing like they appeared.
What if I told you that in just a few seconds, you could decode a person’s true personality—just by observing their body language, tone of voice, and subtle behaviors? Studies show that over 90% of our communication is nonverbal, meaning that what people say is often the least important part of what they’re actually telling you. If you want to uncover hidden emotions, spot deception, or instantly understand someone’s intentions—keep watching.
Because today, we’re breaking down 17 psychological tricks that will teach you how to read people like an open book!
1. The Power of Eye Contact
They say the eyes are the windows to the soul, but most people don’t know how to interpret them correctly. For instance, if someone can’t stop staring at you, it could mean attraction—or something much darker. If they avoid your gaze, they might be anxious, insecure, or even hiding something. But here’s a big red flag: If someone is looking directly at you without blinking and holding an unnatural, intense gaze, beware—this is a classic indicator that they might be lying or manipulating you.
2. Eyebrow Signals
If you want to know if someone is truly comfortable around you, pay attention to their eyebrows. Eyebrows naturally rise when we feel surprise, concern, or fear. Now, try raising your eyebrows while talking about something casual—it feels unnatural, right? So, if someone lifts their brows during a conversation and there’s no logical reason for them to feel shocked or worried, chances are they’re uncomfortable or uneasy.
3. The Truth Behind Smiles
A fake smile can fool a lot of people—but not you, once you know this trick. The mouth can lie, but the eyes never do. A genuine smile reaches the corners of the eyes, creating those tiny crinkles known as crow’s feet. If someone’s smile doesn’t reach their eyes, they’re probably masking their true feelings.
4. What People Say vs. Who They Really Are
Want an easy way to spot a good person? Listen to how they talk about others. If someone frequently compliments their friends, co-workers, or partner, they’re likely a kind and positive individual. But if they’re always criticizing, gossiping, or complaining, it could be a reflection of their own negativity.
5. The Hidden Meaning Behind Tone of Voice
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The way people speak says more than the actual words they use. For example, a flat, monotone voice usually means someone is uninterested or emotionally detached. Similarly, sarcasm is when someone’s true meaning is the opposite of their words—so always pay attention to how something is said, not just what’s being said.
6. The Side Glance Clue
Warm and welcoming people will face you directly and maintain eye contact. But if someone immediately glances to the side after meeting you, their subconscious mind is signaling that they are looking for an exit.
7. Excessive Nodding – A Silent Plea for Approval
Nodding usually means agreement, but too much nodding is a different story. If someone nods excessively while you speak, they may be worried about pleasing you or anxious for your approval.
8. The Jaw & Chin Secret
When someone is deep in thought, they’ll often rub their chin, looking up, down, or to the side. But here’s something crucial: A clenched jaw, even if they seem relaxed, is a major stress indicator.
9. Posture & Confidence
How a person stands and walks can instantly reveal their confidence level. If they walk upright with shoulders back, they likely feel self-assured. If they slouch and stare at the ground, it often signals low confidence, sadness, or exhaustion.
10. Hands Reveal Hidden Thoughts
Hands often betray what’s really going on in someone’s mind. For example, when someone rubs their hands together, it usually means they’re feeling optimistic or excited about something.
Read More: 19 Psychological Tricks That Will Change How You Influence People
11. The Handshake Test
A handshake is a powerful indicator of personality.
- Soft and weak? They might be submissive or insecure.
- Too strong and crushing? They could be dominant or aggressive.
- Too short? It might signal discomfort or lack of interest.
12. Leaning In vs. Leaning Away
Someone who leans in while speaking to you is showing interest and trust. But if they lean back, it’s a subtle sign of disinterest or discomfort.
13. The Holding a Baby Test
This might sound bizarre, but if you meet a new mother, watch which arm she uses to hold her baby. Research shows that happy and secure mothers tend to carry their baby in their left arm, while stressed or anxious mothers often hold their baby in their right arm.
14. Crossed Arms and Legs – The Defensive Barrier
Crossing arms or legs might seem casual, but in psychology, it’s actually a defensive posture. A similar trick? Watch their feet. If someone’s feet are pointing toward the exit, their mind is already thinking about leaving the conversation!
15. What Shoes Reveal About Personality
A person’s shoes can be a dead giveaway about their personality.
- Nervous people tend to wear new or very clean shoes.
- Friendly and open people opt for comfortable, practical shoes.
- Laid-back personalities often choose worn-out, casual footwear.
- Aggressive or dominant individuals are more likely to wear ankle boots.
16. First Impressions & Overall Appearance
People judge each other based on first impressions. Someone who is well-groomed and neat might be detail-oriented and disciplined. Meanwhile, a casual look could suggest creativity or indifference to social norms.
17. The Mirror Effect – The Ultimate Sign of Connection
If you see someone subtly mimicking your movements, posture, or gestures, it’s a great sign—it means they feel comfortable and in sync with you!
Final Thoughts
Most people completely overlook these tiny but powerful cues. But now that you know how to read people, you’ll never look at them the same way again!
What’s the first thing YOU notice about someone when you meet them? Drop a comment below!