Two days ago, while braiding my hair, I told my hairstylist my daughter must really like her for her to engage with her.
Because my daughter is just like me, if you don’t engage with her, she won’t engage with you.
As an introvert, it takes a lot for me to connect with someone enough to flow with them in conversations.
And my stylist replied, “I’ve not met a child who doesn’t like me. Every child always likes me, no matter their race or gender.”
I believe her because I can see a major reason every child found her likable – she showed genuine interest in them.
She has a habit of greeting my kids with a big smile and asking them how they are.
She talks to them while she works, and they’re happy to indulge her.
I know sometimes, we think some people are lucky enough to be naturally likable.
While that is possible due to personality traits, I believe everyone can be likable if they exercise some habits of likability.
People who are highly likable definitely do things that others don’t do.
However, being likable is subjective because humans are different and appreciate different things.
But let’s explore some common habits of highly likable people that can help us connect with others on a deeper level.
Highly Likable People Have These 8 Amazing Habits
1. They show genuine interest in people
Humans are generally selfish creatures, so it takes some intentionality to show genuine interest in others.
Highly likable people understand this and make an effort to ask questions and listen attentively when talking to someone.
They’re not just waiting for their turn to talk; they’re really listening.
They are genuinely curious about the other person and seek to understand them better.
Likable folks have that knack for making everyone in the room feel like they’re the star of the show.
When someone senses you’re truly tuned in to their stories and feelings, it builds a bridge of trust and closeness.
Who doesn’t want to cross that bridge?
So, it’s not surprising that people easily open up to highly likable individuals and feel comfortable in their presence.
It’s not about being a social butterfly fluttering around.
Even us introverts can pull this off.
And it starts with little things like asking, ”How was your day?” or ”What are you most excited about lately?”
Be genuinely interested in their answers, and your likability factor will soar.
2. They have a positive attitude
It’s hard not to like someone who always has a smile on their face and sees the glass as half full.
Isn’t life hard already?
People are drawn to those who bring a positive energy and outlook into their lives.
Even when things get tough, highly likable people still choose to focus on the good stuff.
They don’t let negativity consume them or affect their interactions with others.
Their optimism is infectious, and it’s a great trait that makes people want to be around them more.
You can’t be a negative Nancy and expect people to be drawn to you.
Nah.
3. They treat everyone with respect and kindness
It’s easy to be nice to people we like or those in positions of power.
But highly likable individuals go above and beyond; they show respect and kindness to everyone they meet, regardless of their status or background.
They believe in treating people the way they would like to be treated and don’t discriminate based on superficial factors.
If you only treat people who have something to offer you with respect, that’s not being likable; that’s just being opportunistic.
But when you show kindness and respect to everyone, it shows that you value people as individuals and not for what they can do for you.
And this is a quality that truly makes someone likable because it shows they are kind in their interactions with others.
You can’t fake kindness or respect.
People will always see through it.
4. They are genuine
You know those people who try too hard to be liked?
Yeah, they come off as disingenuous and insincere.
Just because you are being intentional about being likable doesn’t mean you should be fake.
Highly likable people are authentic and genuine; they don’t put on a facade or act differently around different people.
They are unapologetically themselves and comfortable in their own skin.
This makes them more approachable because they’re not putting up any barriers, and it shows that they’re confident in who they are.
With them, what you see is what you get and who they are.
People love genuine people because they are relatable and easy to connect with.
5. They have a sense of humor
There is a reason the comedy industry is booming.
People love to laugh, and highly likable individuals understand that.
They have a great sense of humor and know-how to use it effectively in social situations.
They can make people feel at ease with their jokes, especially in uncomfortable or tense situations.
You wonder why we like comedians?
They make us laugh and relieve stress, and we automatically like them more.
Of course, this doesn’t mean you have to be a stand-up comedian or force yourself to be funny.
But being able to laugh at yourself and find humor in everyday situations is a quality that people are drawn to.
It shows that you can lighten the mood and don’t take things too seriously, making you a fun and likable person to be around.
6. They remember names
There’s just something about hearing your name from someone else that makes you feel seen – literally like you matter to them.
Imagine you’ve met someone maybe once or twice, and the next time they see you, they greet you by name.
Doesn’t that just make you feel like a million bucks?
It’s because they made the effort to remember something about you, and it makes you feel like you matter.
Likeable people get this, they really do.
They understand that a person’s name is the sweetest sound to that person.
And so they make a conscious effort to remember people’s names and use them in conversations.
Not everyone is good at remembering names, but it’s a skill that can be learned and practiced.
7. They know how to apologize
Likable people are not perfect, and they know it.
They also understand that mistakes happen and that it’s okay to be wrong from time to time.
What sets them apart is their ability to take responsibility for their actions and apologize when needed.
They don’t make excuses or try to shift the blame onto others.
Instead, they own up to their mistakes, sincerely apologize, and strive to do better in the future.
This shows humility and maturity, and people love them for it!
Even though we live in a generation where cancel culture is rampant, people are always willing to give a likable person a second chance if they own up to their mistakes and show genuine remorse.
That’s the power of being likable.
8. They know how to give compliments
Everybody appreciates a kind word, especially when it’s sincere and comes straight from the heart.
In our ever-busy and fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook the good in people and only focus on what they lack.
But highly likable individuals take the time to notice and acknowledge the good in others.
They don’t just give compliments, but they also make them count.
For example, there’s a difference between saying “you look nice today” and “that color looks great on you, it brings out your eyes.”
See the difference?
One is generic, while the other is specific and personal.
Highly likable people understand that compliments should be genuine and specific to be truly impactful.
If you want to be more likable, start by noticing the good in others and letting them know.
Being highly likable is not about being perfect or having a particular personality type.
Really, it’s about the little habits we cultivate that make others feel seen, heard, and valued, and these habits listed above are a great place to start.