Last week, I had an opportunity to present a workshop on Business Etiquette. I’ve always loved public speaking so this was a perfect opportunity for me. After the workshop, one of the attendees told me that she loved the presentation, my presence and the humor I infused into it. She said I was completely likeable. *Happy Dance*

After basking in her positive comments, I started thinking about times that I haven’t been so likeable. Yes, it happens sometimes, probably more than I want to admit. I can get caught up in what I’m doing or what I need to do that I may alienate someone. I’m sure during my lifetime I’ve said something that turned someone off and not intentionally.  Again, it doesn’t happen often but it has happened (I’m honest).

Are you likeable? Here are 9 things to do to make sure you are:

1. Smile. A genuine smile creates a strong first impression.
2. Watch your words, your conversations and comments. Nothing turns someone off more than when someone doesn’t know when their comments are hurtful, uninformed or more than what the other person wants to hear at that time.
3. Be confident without being over-confident. Over-confidence is often looked at as being cocky.
4. Share your vulnerabilities. We all have them and no one is perfect so don’t act like you are.
5. Realize and accept that you are not everyone’s cup of tea.
6. Be respectful of others.
7. Employ the Golden Rule: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you,”
8. Tap into your comedic side. One universal truth I’ve learned is the majority of people love to laugh. There’s a reason laughter is called the best medicine.
9. Be yourself. What makes being yourself so important in being likeable is you are relaxed, not trying to impress which can be a huge turnoff and you like who you are.

Are there other tips and things you would add to become, be and stay likeable? Share your thoughts by commenting below.