Communication experts say highly likable people do 10 things in conversations to build relationships
The article delves into the subtle yet impactful habits of highly likable people in conversations, revealing ten specific behaviors that foster deeper relationships. These range from active listening and collecting data to balancing conversations and mirroring body language. By engaging authentically and attentively, these individuals demonstrate a genuine interest in others, which not only makes conversations more meaningful but also builds trust and empathy.
What stands out is the simplicity of these actions, underscoring that likability is less about strategy and more about presence and authenticity. By focusing on the person in front of them, understanding their needs, and responding with genuine curiosity, likable people create a space where others feel valued and heard. This approach is both refreshing and attainable, suggesting that anyone can enhance their relational skills by practicing mindfulness and empathy in everyday interactions.
Constructive analysis
The constructive-journalism lens: not just what happened, but what works.
- The problem
- The challenge of forming genuine connections in an increasingly distracted and transactional world.
- The actions
- Highly likable people listen actively, ask meaningful questions, and maintain a balanced conversation by being present and empathetic.
- Evidence of progress
- Experts highlight how these interactions make others feel valued and heard, which are crucial for building trust and rapport.
- What we can learn
- Others can learn to prioritize presence over pre-planned dialogue, focus on the needs of their conversational partners, and use humor and names to personalize interactions.
PERMA wellbeing profile of this story
Seligman's five pillars of wellbeing, as expressed in this story.
- Positive Emotion
- 8
- Engagement
- 9
- Relationships
- 10
- Meaning
- 7
- Accomplishment
- 6
Character strengths in play
Top VIA strengths this story embodies.
Curiosity
Being inquisitive about what people need during conversations is key to building stronger relationships.
Kindness
Make eye contact. This fosters a relationship because when you are fully present, it signals respect, interest, and helps others feel valued.
Perspective
We all carry biases which can block our view of the person standing in front of us. When you catch yourself being judgmental, have some grace with yourself.
Gratitude
They’ll be so grateful you repeated your name too!
Humor
Finally, highly likable people make sure to infuse conversations with laughter.
Try this today
In your next conversation, try to be fully present by putting away distractions and focusing entirely on the person you're speaking with. Use their name and ask follow-up questions based on their responses to show genuine interest.