Communicating correctly is a fundamental element when relating to others: the first impression is in fact decisive for the evolution of the interpersonal relationship. But how important is it to know and master the components that come into play in the first meeting? In this essay, Stefano Bartoli and Lara Ventisette guide us to understand the psychological mechanisms behind a smile or a handshake; mechanisms that concern both those who smile or extend their hand and those who observe the smile or handshake. They make us understand how necessary it is to guide the meeting, controlling the tone of voice, facial expressions, posture and clothing. But also preparing the scenario in which this first contact can take place. Through empathetic communication we can learn to manage the story we send to the world, instead of suffering from it, structuring it based on the situations and interlocutors, and also our objectives.