According feedback I've received, I appear to be very intimidating and 'shifty'. I can verify that it is true as I can see fear on faces when I approach. Constant looks of confirmation hoping that I am not dangerous are given, and I try my best to not creep anyone out. How can I change this perception? I've tried to dress better, groom better, but I believe my face and body shape give off an impression of a 'gangster' or 'criminal'.

Learn to always have a slight smile on your face.

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Stand back further when you open and look like you are being careful not to frighten, it's mindful and empathetic. Smile more. Talk more and laugh more so people aren't left wondering about your personality. Avoid stiff body language and standing over or square on to people.

How big and tall are you?

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Approach. Open. Escalate. Isolate

Here are my two essential rules on texting that will save you tons of time and money:

general-questions/topic137931.html

First... SMILE.

Second... MAINTAIN eye contact.

The reason you look intimidating is because you've got a serious look on your face. SMILE bro. Look like you're having fun... Not like you want to kick someones ass.

And the reason people say you are shifty is because your eyes are probably all over the place. Look at people in the eyes when you talk to them. It makes you more trustworthy.

Imagine if game was based just on how we looked? You'd either be doing really well or be completely screwed. I dunno, probably about 75% of game is VERBAL communication. Don't just sit their quietly and try to send out a vibe, especially if whatever vibe that is is one of intimidation. You need to engage people in conversation, even if it is indirect and your prospective sets are watching you talk to other people. Learn to tell some jokes or convey excitement in your voice and mannerisms. As long as you are smiling, laughing and just conversing in a congenial manner, you will generally be well received by people.

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“Nothing is impossible, the word itself says 'I'm possible'!” ~Audrey Hepburn

Some girls love that look (1 night stand types)

And other girls hate it (the girls who would be good relationship material)
I have the same issue

They say that better than 80% of communication is non-verbal so be conscious of your body language. I've had similar issues in the past due to my height, race and deep voice. So when you approach a girl, never square up directly to her because it can set an aggressive and even hostile tone. Just watch National Geographic specials on wildlife and that much becomes pretty salient.
What I've also found out that has been particularly helpful is to be "playful" and to tease them, once I've sustained their attention. Negs are a great way to cut through tension.