People have many stereotypes, even when they believe they don’t. They see a big tattooed person and think they’re a thug, for example.
Or they see a person wearing glasses, and they think they’re smart. It’s nothing new, of course.
Stereotypes like these helped us survive in the distant past. You had to judge everything and everyone on first impressions, or you were toast.
But, in the modern world, that’s mostly not true anymore.
Still, if you notice others being intimidated by you, you might unknowingly be giving off an intimidating vibe. They see you as someone they need to be afraid of.
So, let’s see what subtle signs prove you’re intimidating others without even trying.
1) Strong eye contact
Eye contact is powerful. It shows confidence and attention. However, when it’s too intense, it can feel like you’re trying to stare someone down.
Now, don’t get me wrong, eye contact is great for showing you’re engaged, but sometimes, it can be a tad intense.
Some people interpret it as aggression or dominance, even if that’s not your intention. Plus, some have these wild, wide-open eyes that just look menacing.
Couple that with, let’s call it, an alternative persona, and you’ve got a recipe for intimidating folks.
You could be the gentlest person inside, but that’s just not what your eyes are expressing to others.
So, maybe try softening it up a bit, you know?
2) Standing too close
Personal space is a big deal for most people. When you invade someone’s space, it can trigger discomfort and make them feel like you’re intruding.
I’ve met people who simply aren’t aware of physical boundaries for some reason and don’t give others room to breathe.
Being aware of social norms when it comes to personal space can help you make interactions more comfortable for everyone involved.
Look, you’re a friendly person, no doubt about it, but if you sometimes accidentally invade people’s personal space without realizing it, just take a step back, and everything should be cool.
3) Speaking loudly or authoritatively
If your voice is powerful, sometimes it comes across as too commanding. If it’s consistently loud or authoritative, it’s just too overwhelming for others.
For example, when someone makes a mistake, you address it with such intensity and volume that it feels like you’re scolding them instead of offering constructive feedback.
You just come across as domineering or like you’re trying to control the conversation. Tone and volume matter, so adjusting them to match the context and the comfort level of those around you is simply better.
Maybe try dialing it down just a notch?
4) Limited smiling
You’ve got a killer smile when you use it. But sometimes, it feels like you’re holding back on the smiles, and that can make people wonder if you’re approachable or not.
Besides, life’s too short not to have a laugh, am I right? I know that sometimes, it feels like you’re carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders. I do, too. Still, that doesn’t mean I don’t crack jokes or make fun of serious situations (within limits).
I’ve learned early on that people simply respond better to those who smile more.
So, lighten up, my friend!
5) Negative body language
Now, all of the above basically form your body language. And your body language is like a reflection of your mood, right?
Closed-off body language, such as crossed arms or a tense posture, signals defensiveness or hostility.
That means you unintentionally put up barriers, making others feel like they’re on the outside looking in.
You need to pay attention to your body language and ensure it matches the message you want to share.
Open and relaxed body language simply helps put others at ease and encourages open communication.
When you feel comfortable in your skin, people will notice it, and they won’t find you so intimidating anymore.
Unless…
6) Physical size and presence
Unless you’re huge and bald. Yes, people still stereotype muscular people. Just think about it. If you see two huge guys walking down a barely lit street, would you go across the road so you don’t have to face them?
I really think most people would.
So, if you’ve got a large or imposing stature, it might unintentionally intimidate others. If you want to look more likable and approachable, you’ll need to smile more and have a generally more pleasant demeanor.
So, let’s talk about that a bit more.
7) Being unapproachable
Being approachable is super important for making connections and having good conversations.
If you seem like you’re too busy or not interested, people might not want to talk to you. On the other hand, being friendly and open to chatting, looking people in the eye, and being responsive when they reach out will make them feel comfortable approaching you.
So, being approachable basically means being open and friendly so others feel like they can talk to you without any hesitation.
Now, let’s spend some time on how you talk to others, okay?
8) Dominating conversations
In a chat, everyone should get a chance to join in and share their thoughts. If one person always takes over, it makes others feel left out.
Listening actively, giving room for different views, and making sure everyone has a say make conversations richer and builds mutual respect.
When everyone gets involved, it brings people together and makes relationships stronger.
You’ve got a lot of great stories to share. But give others a chance to shine, too.
9) Interrupting others
When you interrupt someone while they’re talking, you basically don’t respect what they’re saying.
Many times, it can also scare them, especially if they don’t know you too well.
It also messes up the conversation flow and makes them feel ignored. To listen well means to let people finish what they’re saying without cutting in.
That way, you show that you care about what they have to say. Try to be patient and wait for a break in the discussion before you jump in with your thoughts.
10) Using big words or jargon
You’re obviously smart, but sometimes, all those big words and industry jargon can leave people scratching their heads.
I, too, want to use big words sometimes, but I restrain myself and just quickly find a less daunting alternative in my mind.
For example, I love German words like Schadenfreude, Weltschmerz, Sehnsucht, Zeitgeist, and so on.
But if I started using them, everyone around me would look at me like I was a prick and just showing off.
So, be like me and try keeping it simple.
11) Being too critical
Imagine you’re playing a game with a friend, and every time they make a small mistake, you point it out right away and make a big deal about it.
You make the game less fun, and your friend feel bad about themselves.
You’ve got high standards, and that’s awesome! But sometimes, it feels like those standards might be a bit too high.
Cut yourself and others some slack every now and then, and you’ll see how more relaxed they start behaving around you.
Just scream into the pillow like me.
12) Lack of empathy
And lastly, if you’re intimidating others, it could mean you lack empathy. Empathy helps you understand how other people feel.
When your friend is sad because they lost their pet, you can imagine how they’re feeling, and you might feel sad too.
You’re stepping into their shoes and seeing the world from their perspective.
Now, if you tell your friend, “It’s just a cat, don’t be sad,” they’ll feel like you don’t understand how much it means to them.
That’s why it’s important to show that you get how they’re feeling and that it’s okay for them to feel that way.
Final thoughts
If you’re not aware of how your words, actions, and demeanor affect others, you could unknowingly be giving off an intimidating vibe.
The good thing is that if you’re aware of this fact, you can work on softening your persona as a whole. That’s if you wish to do so.
For all that I know, I might have just given you 12 tips on how to intimidate people even more. Welp!