Want To Be Instantly Likeable? Master These 6 Underrated Social Tricks

Being likeable means not being loud or telling a joke. It means making someone else feel that they are seen, respected, or appreciated. Small gestures in networking events, social picnics, or business meetings may establish a deeper connection with another and leave a lasting impression. Here are six very simple ways to appear more likeable.

Listen to understand, not to reply: One of the most versatile tools to gain likability is to listen attentively. Most people listen just to find something to say, but when you give your full attention to someone-without interrupting or thinking about what you want to say next-that person feels heard and respected. Instead of mentally going through the preparation of what you will say once the other person is done talking, make an effort to absorb what they are actually conveying. This may include nodding occasionally and maintaining good eye contact before you respond. Forget about impressing people and strive to understand them.

“A turning point in someone’s life is often just one meaningful conversation away. It’s not your appearance that leaves a lasting impression it’s your presence, your ability to listen, and the thoughtfulness you bring into the moment. Real impact comes from making people feel heard, understood, and inspired -not just seen” shares Ramanand Bhatt, a storyteller and an Executive coach.

Open and friendly body language: Your body starts talking even before you do. Crossed arms might mean you're shutting others away; a blank face might communicate disinterest; fidgeting with your phone surely ranks high as the biggest insult in someone's book. Instead, stand or sit with open body language, gently smile, make eye contact, and face the other person when speaking. Sometimes even small gestures such as mirroring someone's energy or leaning slightly to listen can have great effect. The next time you find yourself in the company of unfamiliar guests, give them your entire body orientation and not just your head or eyes.

Shalini Rathod, Confidence and Image Coach says, “People often focus on what to say, but forget that the body speaks first. In my work, I’ve seen time and again, when your energy is open, relaxed, and warm, people feel safe around you. They mirror your presence, trust you more, and connect deeply”.

Smile-genuinely and often: The easiest thing to make you look friendly, approachable, and kind is to give a genuine smile. It radiates warmth and comfort on others. This doesn’t mean you need to smile nonstop. Just be mindful of your expressions, especially when greeting someone, listening to a story, or saying goodbye.

“A genuine smile is like a cheat code in social settings. It makes people feel comfortable and helps in building trust. Just one honest curve and people feel it. No need to impress, just be yourself, and real connections will follow”, says Aaditya Mehta, Podcaster & Story Writer.

Ask meaningful questions: Asking questions shows real interest in someone. Instead of just talking about superficial topics, they encourage deeper conversations by allowing people the very important privilege of expressing their own thoughts and feelings. When one shows curiosity, they have created a safe space for sharing. People will remember more about the feeling they were made to experience during a conversation than the vocabulary that was used.

“One of the most underrated social skills is the ability to ask thoughtful questions. In any conversation, people don’t remember those who spoke the most, they remember those who made them feel heard. A well-placed, meaningful question shows you're present, curious, and genuinely interested. It shifts the spotlight to the other person and invites connection. Whether in a boardroom or a casual chat, asking the right question often makes a stronger impression than delivering the perfect answer”, shares CA Harshil Mehta, management consultant, a passionate public speaker and a published author.

Remember names and use it: It's crucial to remember a name. The other person feels appreciated and respected when the name is used. It makes it possible for a personal bond to form right away.

“Remembering someone’s name and using it is a small gesture that leaves a big impact. It makes people feel seen, respected, and instantly connected. Names carry identity. In any interaction, this simple habit sets you apart”, says Chaahat Mishra, student at Mithibai College and a public speaking enthusiast.

Express genuine concern for other people: People are skilled at spotting sincerity in expressions of gratitude. When one shows genuine interest in the experiences, opinions, or endeavours of another, a bond is formed. Therefore, something should be done to truly observe and acknowledge what is important to them rather than just giving them unauthentic and superficial compliments.

“One of the most powerful tools for likeability. I’ve learnt is from Improv workshops- the concept of “Yes”, and instead of the usual “No, But.” Often, when someone shares an opinion, expresses their thought or shares something with us, our instinct is to respond with our egos and show disagreement. While you may not agree, in my opinion, starting with “Yes, and” allows you to acknowledge the other person’s perspective before adding your own. It helps the other person feel heard and seen. In my experience, every conversation is about proving a point, sometimes it’s about understanding information, other times it could be being present while someone shares or vents or simply about building connection”, shares Binny Advani, an emcee and a public speaking coach.

Likeability cannot be forced on another. It is something that you earn by being someone who makes others feel good in their presence. Your social presence could completely change if you adopt these six habits. None of these recommendations will require the person to completely change their personality; they only need to make minor adjustments to the way they interact with others. After some practice, these behaviours will help you become more likeable while boosting your self-esteem and comfort level in any social situation.