4 Simple Tricks Successful People Use to Be More Likable
There are so many factors to consider when it comes to being a person with a high likability factor. Perhaps displaying random acts of kindness or keeping your cool under pressure is a feature of your likability.
If you're looking to influence others and attract people to expand your personal or professional network, start paying attention to what will naturally make you more likable as a human being.
1. Ask interesting questions
The most likable people ask interesting questions that will ignite captivating conversations. But for that scenario to happen, curiosity is the social prerequisite.
Several studies reveal that curious people have better relationships and connect better with others. In fact, other people are more easily attracted to and feel socially closer to individuals that display curiosity.
Being interested is more important in building and maintaining a relationship than being interesting; this is what gets the dialogue going and keeps flowing.
Instead of asking the casual, basic stuff we're all tired of answering, try these great conversational questions:
"What's your story?" This is open-ended enough to trigger an intriguing story--a journey to a foreign country, getting funded for the startup of your dreams, a special talent used for improving lives, etc.
"What was the highlight of your week?" This question puts the conversation on a positive note right off the bat, giving the other person a chance to reflect on something he or she is excited about.
"What is one of your most defining moments in life?" This is another great question that invites the speaker to share on a deeper level, which builds momentum and rapport more quickly. Obviously, a few casual questions before this one helps set the mood for hearing about a profound moment or transition in that person's life.
2. Smile more
According to body language experts, people can judge us in just a 10th of a second. And in two or more seconds, people's judgments of us tend to become more negative with the wrong nonverbal cues. To avoid this predicament, simply smile more.
As visual beings, we seek to lock eyes with others for an immediate facial read. We know that smiles are universal and clear indicators of safety. Try smiling at a stranger--they usually smile back or at least nod. It's a quick way to make a connection and something we all need as humans.
3. Listen intently
Strong active listening skills in conversation are the foundation for superb human communication. Few behaviors enhance a conversation as much as attending to what people have to say. It signals respect and a sense of curiosity about what they have to say.
Are you a good listener? Let me test your ability to actively listen with two quick questions.
How often do you find yourself trying hard to avoid the bad habit of interrupting others while they are speaking?
Do you find yourself tempted to jump in and finish someone else's sentence?
Unfortunately, active listening is one of the least-taught skills in leadership. A landmark study on human communication points out that, in a normal 10-minute conversation, we pay attention to less than half of it. Within 48 hours, whatever information we've retained decreases to 25 percent. In other words, we often comprehend and retain only one-fourth of what we hear.
As leaders, building up your active listening skills is crucial for solving problems, developing trust, and winning the hearts and minds of people.
4. Visibly express your joy
Ever been around people who appear to be positive and happy all the time? Perhaps annoying for some, but what we can learn from people who genuinely express joy is that they choose to live and enjoy life to the fullest. Whether we can admit it or not, these are extremely likable people.
They express their joy in making a positive difference in the lives of others. They are also natural at guiding others along the path they need to take and inspiring others to scale mountains and meet their goals. You can't help but be empowered and feel happy yourself when in their company.