What Makes Likable People Tick
By Sandy Schroeder
We all have friends who are surrounded by other friends. They always knows exactly what to say or do, and move easily through many circles of relatives, neighbors and colleagues. Their likability is really a matter of emotional intelligence that can be learned and used.
Travis Bradberry, co-founder of TalentSmart, the agency that serves 75 percent of the Fortune 500 companies, helps us understand EQ, emotional intelligence, and pin down how it works when it comes to likability.
A recent UCLA study said likability had nothing to do with being attractive, intelligent or outgoing. Instead it was all about being trustworthy, open, sincere and empathetic.
Here is what likable people do.
They are always real - They have figured out who they are and they stick to it. They are comfortable in their own skin and happy to reach out to others. They never waste time trying to impress others. Their honesty and genuine qualities make them appealing because people sense they can be trusted.
They never let their phones intrude - If they are talking to you, they will give you their full attention. Nothing turns off people quicker than the person who just has to take a call or check their latest text.
They ask questions and then listen - They are respected and valued because they are genuinely interested in others. They are curious about everything and often ask intriguing questions. Then they listen carefully to get the information and get to know the person supplying it. Wherever they are, they communicate easily with those around them.
They are reassuringly the same - They have their ups and downs like everybody else, but when others reach out to them they are always treated consistently. We have all dealt with someone who was not reliable, and may or may not come through. Sometimes they were brilliant and very helpful. Other times they were a total loss.
They are open-minded - Instead of leaping to conclusions or passing judgment on others, they are completely approachable. At work this makes them a natural to discuss new ideas or new ways of doing things. At home, it makes them easy to talk to and confide in.
Their body language is always positive - They always maintain eye contact, lean forward to talk with others and speak with enthusiasm. Most people find themselves eager to talk with them and return frequently.
If these likable qualities work for you, hang onto them and shape them to fit.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Goodyear, Ariz.