What makes some people more likable than others? You may think it’s a matter of intangibles such as personality or charisma, but in fact, scientific research has found some answers to this question. That’s good news, because you can use this information to raise the odds that people will like you.
Be seen often
Let people see you often: comment on friends’ social media posts and go to the gym at the same time every day to increase the odds of bumping into the same people
- This requires some sensitivity, but becoming familiar is a good first step toward being liked.
Ask questions
Put the focus back on the other person and let them know you value their opinions and experiences.
- People who ask more questions during conversations are perceived as more responsive and are better liked by conversation partners.
- Try this approach next time you want to quickly establish a bond with somebody you’ve just met.
Smile
Research shows that smiling has all kinds of beneficial effects
- Smiling instantly makes you more attractive, it will make people like you more, and people are more apt to like someone they consider attractive
- Less-attractive faces with smiles were rated as high as attractive faces without smiles
