Reading people isn’t about manipulation, it’s about understanding. It’s about picking up on subtle cues others might miss.

Intuitively knowing how to read someone is a skill that comes naturally to some, and it often manifests in specific behaviors.

I’ve observed that individuals who are particularly adept at this tend to display nine distinct behaviors.

Let’s take a closer look at these behaviors and see if you recognize any in yourself or others around you.

1) Keen observers

The ability to read others is intrinsically linked to observation skills.

People who naturally understand others often display an acute sense of awareness. They pay close attention to details that most might overlook.

These individuals pick up on subtle cues such as body language, tone of voice, and even the choice of words. They can sense when someone is uncomfortable, excited, or hiding something, just by observing these minor details.

This behavior allows them to gauge the emotions and intentions of the people around them. It’s like having a sixth sense that picks up on everything.

But remember, being a keen observer isn’t about prying or invading others’ privacy. It’s about understanding people better and relating to them on a deeper level.

2) Empathetic listeners

Another trait commonly found in individuals who can read others is their ability to listen—truly listen.

I remember a time when I was going through a personal crisis. I confided in a friend who had this unique ability to understand people. She didn’t interrupt, offer advice, or try to shift the focus of the conversation. Instead, she listened attentively and empathetically.

She was able to sense my underlying emotions, not just from my words, but also from my tone, my pauses, and the expressions on my face. She knew when to probe further and when to simply lend a comforting ear.

Listening in this way allows these individuals to understand others’ perspectives deeply. They don’t just hear the words spoken; they tune into the emotions and thoughts behind them.

This skill helps them connect at a deeper level and read people like an open book.

3) Non-judgmental mindset

Those who have a knack for understanding others usually approach situations and conversations with a non-judgmental mindset.

There’s a psychological phenomenon known as the fundamental attribution error. It’s our tendency to judge others by their behavior while attributing our own actions to circumstances.

For example, if someone is late, we might think they’re irresponsible, but if we’re late, we blame traffic.

People who intuitively know how to read others often bypass this error. They understand that there are circumstances beyond control and do not rush to conclusions. Their open-mindedness allows them to perceive situations more accurately, making them excellent at understanding others.

4) High emotional intelligence

Emotional intelligence is another key characteristic of people who can effortlessly read others.

At its core, emotional intelligence refers to the ability to identify and manage one’s own emotions, as well as the emotions of others.

Individuals with high emotional intelligence can pick up on the emotions of people around them, often before those individuals are even aware of what they’re feeling.

This intuitive understanding allows them to respond appropriately to people in various situations.

Whether it’s offering comfort in a time of distress or sharing in a moment of joy, their high emotional intelligence allows them to connect deeply and authentically.

5) They ask insightful questions

One of the common behaviors of people who intuitively read others is their tendency to ask insightful questions.

They don’t just engage in small talk; they dig deeper. Their questions aim to understand the thoughts, feelings, and motivations of the person they are interacting with.

This isn’t an interrogation technique. Rather, it’s a genuine curiosity to understand others better. By asking the right questions, they are able to uncover layers that might not be immediately visible, allowing them to read people more effectively.

6) They show genuine interest

At the heart of understanding people is a genuine interest in them. Those who intuitively know how to read others are often genuinely interested in people, their stories, their experiences, and their perspectives.

They don’t engage in conversations just to pass the time or because it’s socially expected. They do it because they genuinely care and are fascinated by the variety and complexity of human experiences.

This heartfelt interest often shines through in their conversations and interactions, making people more comfortable and open around them.

This openness, in turn, enables them to understand people on a deeper level.

7) They are patient

Patience is a virtue, and in the realm of understanding people, it’s a crucial one.

I recall a time when I had a disagreement with a colleague. He was adamant about his perspective and wasn’t willing to budge. Instead of getting frustrated or defensive, I chose to be patient.

In time, he opened up about his underlying concerns, fears, and motivations that were driving his stance. Had I reacted impulsively, I may have missed the opportunity to understand his viewpoint.

People who intuitively know how to read others often display this kind of patience.

They understand that people can’t be rushed into sharing their thoughts or feelings. They give people the time and space they need to express themselves, which ultimately helps them understand others better.

8) They are respectful of boundaries

Respect for personal boundaries is another key behavior displayed by those who intuitively understand others.

They recognize that everyone has their own comfort zones and limits. While they are curious and interested in understanding people, they never push someone to share more than they are comfortable with.

Their respect for boundaries helps build trust. People feel safe around them, knowing that their personal space and privacy will be respected.

This trust often allows people to open up more, making it easier for these intuitive individuals to read and understand them.

9) They practice self-awareness

Above all, those who intuitively understand others are often deeply self-aware.

They have a clear understanding of their own emotions, thoughts, strengths, and weaknesses. This self-awareness not only helps them manage their own behavior and reactions but also enhances their ability to understand others.

When they are in tune with themselves, they are better equipped to tune into others. They can empathize, connect, and relate to others more effectively.

This self-awareness is the foundation upon which their ability to read others is built.