Perhaps you weren’t so popular in school and now are heading off to college and hoping to make a fresh start. Perhaps you have moved to a different city and are feeling lonely, or perhaps you are in a job where you need people to trust and admire you so they find you more persuasive.
Knowing how to make people like you is something that comes more naturally to some people than others, but luckily, if you find it difficult to make new friends or gain people’s confidence, there are some tips and tricks that can help make life easier for you.
1. Listen
People like to know they are being listened to, so make sure you pay attention – don’t just nod your head and smile!
2. Smile
People will like you more if you show them those pearly whites. You need to look friendly and approachable, so make sure you flash them a smile when you first meet, and try to smile lots during conversations too.
3. Find common ground
People like to feel understood, so make sure you find lots in common with them!
4. Go on an adventure with them
Doing something, fun, wild, and adventurous will prove you are lots of fun and help you bond.
5. Do them a favor
People will look upon you kindly if you are willing to help them out, so make sure you are happy to go out of your way for them.
6. Be kind
A little kindness goes a long way, so make sure you show people that you are a kind and decent person.
7. Stick up for them
If you show that you are willing to fight for and stick up for that person, they’ll really appreciate it and be more likely to return the favor too.
8. Be thoughtful
There are many ways you can be thoughtful – offer to make the teas and coffees, help someone out when they are stuck on something, or just ask someone how their day was.
9. Look after them
If someone isn’t feeling well or having a tough time, show that you care by looking after them – this will show them what a great person you are, and they’ll really appreciate you being their friend.
10. Remember them
People like to feel acknowledged – so when you are introduced to people, be it at an event, in your new class, or at your new job, pay attention to their names and what they do.
11. Ask them questions
People love to talk about themselves so make sure you ask a lot of questions to show your interest.
12. Be interested in their interests
If you know they love to play golf on the weekend, or that they love a certain band, get interested in the same stuff as them, and then they’ll think it was a friendship that was meant to be!
13. Be positive
People who come across as positive and happy are more likeable.
14. Share secrets with them
If you open up to them and show your vulnerable side, they’ll feel closer to you.
15. Be generous
Be generous with your stuff, your money, your time – a person who is considered generous is definitely more likeable than one who isn’t.
16. Be honest
Honesty is always the best policy – even if you make a mistake, own up to it, and they’ll be much more likely to forgive and appreciate your candor.