Do people like you? Are your relationships strong and do you naturally have the ability to draw people towards you? If yes, congratulations! You are very likeable! If not, worry no more! Because if you take a close look at the basic qualities of an extremely likeable person, you will find that they all have a few things in common. And that is precisely the topic of today’s article. Let us discuss 10 easy ways that will surely make you more likeable starting today.
1. Be a better listener
Good listeners are hard to find in this era of the Smartphone and tablet computers. And boy, the world needs better listeners! So the easiest way to become more likeable is to start honing your listening skills. Listening is an important social skill you must develop. To be a better listener, always maintain eye contact with the person talking to you. Also keep that mobile phone away for the duration of the conversation. Instead of talking about yourself, get them to talk about themselves or their issues. And whatever you do, do not interrupt. If s/he pauses, ask questions like: “Why?” “How come?” and “Tell me more” etc.
2. Be genuine
Being honest and genuine is very important to be more likeable. People naturally gravitate towards those people that they know they can trust. To be genuine, you need to know yourself well and be comfortable in your own skin. So instead of making choices that you think will make others like you; make choices that make you comfortable. That is the only way to become genuine.
3. Be open minded
Likeable people are almost always more open-minded. So avoid judging people especially when you are not aware of the circumstances. When you are open minded, people will be more willing to approach you and befriend you. After all; no one wishes to talk to someone who has already formed an opinion about them in their mind. You need not believe what others believe, but you can try and let people around you be more comfortable about what they are.
4. Avoid seeking attention
With the right attitude, a big smile and a kind heart, people will always find you more likeable. You need not be over-friendly or do things that make you uncomfortable-just be considerate and confident. Avoid trying to make people understand how important you are-they will always catch on to you if your attitude is humble and down-to-earth.
5. Be consistent
Being consistent and reliable is a surefire way to be more likeable. Do not let your mood or your personal problems get in the way of how you treat people. People will approach you when they are sure your response will be positive no matter what.
6. Use positive body language
Positive body language includes maintaining eye contact, giving people your complete attention, not crossing your arms defensively against your chest, and leaning towards the person talking to you. Also use a positive tone while speaking. It can make a huge difference to the conversation you are having.
7. Make a strong first impression
It is a fact that people decide if they like someone within the first 10 minutes of meeting them. Great first impressions can be formed through inner confidence, positive body language, an assured and firm handshake and a genuine smile. So smile, look into the person’s eyes and open your shoulders to the person you are talking to.
8. Say the person’s name often during conversation
People love their given name. So the more you say it, not just when you greet them, but as often as possible when conversing with them, the more they will like you.
9. Use the power of touch
Touch is a powerful tool which stimulates the production of oxytocin- a neurotransmitter associated with positive feelings. So use a friendly touch-where appropriate. Always greet the people you like with a hug and they will like you right back.
10. Balance work and fun
Likeable people always find the time to have fun. They are not just all work and no play. So, at work, you must be friendly and find some time for positive humor. Have meaningful interactions with your colleagues. Get things done but make sure you keep the atmosphere light and easy.
Finally, to become more likeable, you must keep the commitment of helping people. Bring out the best in all those around you and become invaluable and unique additions in their lives.