Popularity 101: Lovingly likeable

(Photo by Tobias Wolter)

For those who assume that leading a righteous life automatically spells "WALLFLOWER," here's some good news.  Today's likeability tips sound somewhat like scriptural exhortations on humility and compassion.

Jeff Haden of Inc.com recently described "6 Habits of Remarkably Likeable People."  His article includes a photo of an interaction between

Bill Clinton and Nelson Mandela, both of whom "get it right" as far as Haden is concerned.  Within this photo Clinton is leaning in towards Mandela and clasping his hand.  Mandela's pose is relaxed with arms outstretched.   The two international leaders are gazing happily at one another as if they had all the time in the world.

Haden's analysis of what makes for likeability includes the following:  lose the power ploys, utilize non-sexual touch sensitively, focus the conversation upon the other person, show some vulnerability, drop the networking agenda, and wrap up encounters with displays of genuine appreciation rather than with chirpy clichés.  Some key words that Haden uses are these:  deferential, genuine, complimentary.

Overall, Haden's approach to human relations sounds a bit like this one from Luke 14 (ESV):  But when you are invited, go and sit in the lowest place, so that when your host comes he may say to you, 'Friend, move up higher.'  Then you will be honored in the presence of all who sit at the table with you.  For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.   

Resources

http://smallbusiness.yahoo.com/advisor/6-habits-of-remarkably-likeable-people-185252090.html

Copyright February 7, 2013 by Linda Van Slyke   All Rights Reserved