Body Language Tricks to Make You More Likable

There is a clear distinction between exuding natural likability and trying too hard to be liked, it’s all in the body language.

Body language remains an unspoken part of communication that reveals our true feelings and emotions. Body language encompasses our posture, gestures, and facial expressions and these give others a glimpse of our state of mind.

Being likable can pave the way for many benefits professionally and personally. Fortunately, some body language tricks will instantly make you likable. The following are body language tricks you should learn to become likable instantly.

1. Mirror People’s Movements

There is a popular saying that imitation is one of the sincerest forms of flattery. It would help if you mimicked their movements subtly so they wouldn’t notice you doing it. You should imitate the gestures, expressions, and posture of the person you are interacting with. If they lean back in their seat, for instance, hold a minute and do the same and if they use expressive hand gestures when they speak, try to incorporate the same into your body language.

Remember, you must not force these acts, let them come out naturally and make them feel genuine, not mimicking them.

2. Don’t Ignore the Power of Touch

Touch remains a powerful element in human interaction because it conveys many things; empathy, understanding, and affection.

According to a University of Illinois study, participants who were slightly touched by servers while serving food and drinks left higher tips. This goes a long way in showing how powerful a non-intrusive touch can influence people’s behaviors.

While a gentle touch is important, we must still respect people’s boundaries when interacting with them. A light touch on the arm can convey friendliness and warmth, so next time you are having a friendly or formal chat, be sure to read the situation correctly before you add a little touch so that you won’t invade people’s privacies.

3. Maintain Steady Eye Contact

The importance of maintaining strong eye contact cannot be over-emphasized. A casual, steady gaze will communicate your interest more quickly than words sometimes. Maintaining steady eye contact means you are genuinely interested in what the other person has to say. It’s also a non-verbal way of showing respect to others.

Remember, avoid intense glaring at other people, because that could cause them discomfort, and hence keep it natural and friendly, always.

4. Show Your Palms

Many people will wonder what the showing of palms has to do with anything. We often focus more on body language and facial expressions. Though these can convey our feelings, however showing your palms during a conversation is a non-verbal way of saying “I have nothing to hide”, or “I come in peace”.

This is a sign of openness and honesty, two traits that people often find likable. So, when making a point, try to keep your palms open and facing the person you interact with and that simple gesture will help make you more approachable and trustworthy, which in turn will increase your likability. Give this a try and see what difference it makes.

5. Nod Occasionally to Show Your Understanding

Nodding is one of the simplest, yet powerful forms of communication. It’s a universal sign of acknowledgment and agreement.

When you nod when having a conversation, it means you are actively listening and engaged with them. It simply tells the speaker that you are with them or appreciate what they are saying. Do not overdo it because constant nodding can make you appear insincere or you are rushing them. Use the nodding gesture strategically to show you are genuinely engaged in a conversation.

People will always appreciate being understood or being heard and by using this simple body language hack, you will make others feel valued and appreciated, hence you become more likable in the process.

6. Make Your Body Open

You can be in a social gathering feeling nervous without realizing it. In this situation, you may cross your arms across your chest- this is a closed-off posture that will not do you anything good. So, learn to relax and open up a little. Not only will it make a meaningful difference, but you will also start to feel more comfortable and people will likely be drawn to you.

Keeping your body open by uncrossing your arms, and standing with your feet shoulder-width apart will let others know you are approachable and open for interaction. Having a closed body language will make you defensive and uninterested, and those can make people hesitant about approaching you. Next time you find yourself in a social setting, make sure to check in with your body language.

Bottom Line

Do not forget to smile genuinely when having a conversation, unless the discussion is about a serious issue that requires your empathy. Also, learn to always be yourself because authenticity shines and people will notice it easily. Stay true to your values and personality, and people will embrace you for who you are.