We all know those people who can walk into a room and instantly draw everyone’s attention. They have this magnetic charm that makes people gravitate towards them. Ever wonder how they do it?

It’s not just about good looks or a sparkling wit. It’s often simple behaviors that endear them to others. And the best part? These behaviors can be learnt.

Here are eight behaviors that, when practiced, can make people instantly like you. Let’s dive right in, shall we?

1) Genuine interest

Ever wondered why some people just seem to draw others in like a magnet?

Well, one key behavior is showing genuine interest in others. It sounds simple, but it’s surprisingly rare.

In a world where everyone is busy with their own lives, taking the time to really listen to someone else, to show interest in their experiences and feelings, can have a profound impact.

Think about it. How do you feel when someone shows genuine curiosity about your day, your hobbies, or your thoughts? You feel valued, right?

And when we feel valued, we naturally warm up to the person making us feel that way.

So next time you’re in a conversation, try focusing less on what you’re going to say next and more on really understanding the other person. You might be surprised by the effect it has.

Remember though, authenticity is key. Genuine interest can’t be faked. If you’re not truly interested, it’ll show and could end up having the opposite effect.

2) Positivity

You’ve probably heard the saying, “Misery loves company.” But in my experience, positivity is much more contagious.

I remember a time when I was stuck in a long line at the grocery store. Everyone was grumpy and impatient, including me. But then, a woman in front of me started humming a cheerful tune. She turned around and shared a joke about the situation. The tension in the air immediately dissipated.

Her positive energy transformed our shared annoyance into laughter. By the time we reached the checkout counter, we were all smiling. She left behind a ripple of positive energy that undoubtedly impacted everyone’s day.

That’s the power of positivity. It’s infectious and can instantly make people like you. So, whether it’s sharing a joke, a compliment or just a smile, spreading positivity has an immediate impact on how people perceive you.

3) Body language

Ever notice how you can tell what someone is feeling without them even saying a word? That’s the power of body language.

Up to 93% of communication is non-verbal, according to renowned psychologist Albert Mehrabian. This means that our gestures, facial expressions, and posture often speak louder than our words.

Using open and friendly body language can make a huge difference in how people perceive us. Uncross your arms, maintain eye contact, and lean in when someone else is speaking. These small changes can make you seem more approachable and likable.

But remember, body language is a two-way street. Being receptive to others’ non-verbal cues is just as important as being aware of your own. It shows that you’re engaged and respectful of their feelings.

4) Empathy

Putting yourself in someone else’s shoes is a powerful way to connect with them. Empathy allows us to understand and share the feelings of others, which can quickly build a bond.

Imagine this: Your friend has just lost their job. You could respond with a pat on the back and a generic “things will get better”. Or you could acknowledge their feelings, saying something like “I can’t imagine how tough this must be for you right now.”

Which response do you think resonates more? The one that shows empathy, right?

Empathy validates people’s feelings and shows that you care. And when people feel understood and cared for, they’re more likely to feel connected to you.

So, strive to understand others’ perspectives. It might not always be easy, but it’s a surefire way to make people appreciate your presence.

5) Authenticity

There’s something incredibly refreshing about someone who’s unapologetically themselves. In a world where we’re often pressured to fit in, authenticity stands out.

Being authentic means showing your true self, even if it means being vulnerable. It’s about saying what you genuinely feel, not what you think others want to hear.

I have a friend, Lucy, who has this down to an art. She isn’t afraid to show her quirks or share her struggles. Her honesty makes her incredibly likable because it’s so real. You never have to guess where you stand with Lucy.

People are drawn to authenticity because it’s rare and it’s real. So be true to yourself, and you’ll find that people will appreciate and like you for who you are, not who you’re pretending to be.

6) Appreciation

We all like to feel appreciated. It’s a fundamental human need. Taking the time to express gratitude or compliment someone can make a huge difference in their day and how they perceive you.

I remember when I was starting out in my career, I had a boss who would always thank me for my work, no matter how small the task. He would often compliment me on specific things he appreciated about my work. His recognition not only made me like him more but also motivated me to work harder.

Expressing appreciation doesn’t cost anything but a few seconds of your time, yet it can instantly make someone feel valued and, in turn, more likely to like you. So don’t hold back those thank you’s or well-done’s. They mean more than you might think.

7) Respect

Respect is the cornerstone of any positive relationship. Treating others with kindness, fairness, and dignity is crucial in making them like you.

This means valuing other people’s time, opinions, and feelings. It’s about listening when they speak, being honest with them, and honoring your commitments.

Being respectful is not just about big gestures. It’s often the little things that count. Even simple actions like using someone’s name when you’re talking to them can have a big impact.

When people feel respected, they feel valued. And when they feel valued, they’re more likely to like you. So show respect to everyone you meet – it’s a surefire way to leave a positive impression.

8) Consistency

Above all, be consistent. Consistency breeds trust, and trust is the foundation of likability. If you’re consistently kind, respectful, and genuine, people are going to notice. And more importantly, they’re going to appreciate it.

So whether it’s maintaining your positive attitude, showing up when you say you will, or always giving your best effort – be consistent. It’s not about being perfect, but rather showing others that they can rely on you to be the person you’ve shown yourself to be.

Consistency might not be the most glamorous trait, but it’s one of the most impactful when it comes to making people like you. So keep at it, because consistency can’t be faked – and it’s worth its weight in gold.

Reflection: It’s all about connection

At the core of these behaviors is one fundamental principle: connection. Humans, by nature, are social creatures. We long for connection, for a sense of belonging.

The actions we’ve discussed – showing genuine interest, spreading positivity, understanding body language, displaying empathy, being authentic, showing appreciation, being respectful and consistent – these are all pathways to connection.

They help us bridge the gap between ourselves and others, allowing us to form bonds and relationships that enrich our lives.

But remember, it’s not about ticking off a checklist or putting on a performance. It’s about being real, being you. It’s about seeing the humanity in others and treating them with the kindness and respect they deserve.

And when we do this consistently, people can’t help but be drawn to us. They can’t help but like us.

So as you navigate through your interactions – be it with family, friends or strangers – remember that at the heart of likability is connection. And at the heart of connection is simply being human.