7 Easy Ways to Boost Your Charisma
7 Easy Ways to Boost Your Charisma
They say it takes seven positive interactions to outweigh one negative impression. While this may seem daunting, it essentially means you can influence how others perceive you. Here are several ways to charm those around you:
1. Stand Tall
Slouching and looking down might feel comfortable, but it doesn’t convey confidence. A 2003 study by Ohio University showed that we tend to straighten our backs when recalling positive memories or thinking happy thoughts. This works in reverse too! Standing tall makes your shoulders appear broader and makes you look taller. It’s a powerful pose that exudes confidence and strength.
2. Fill Your Mind with Warm Thoughts
People might say you always think negatively. Changing this perception is challenging but possible. Tell yourself, “You can do it!” and use this as a foundation for new achievements. As coach Sims Wyeth says:
Isn’t it nice when you call someone and can hear the smile in their voice? Even such a small detail makes you feel important. A lively and expressive voice is the most powerful tool in the world, especially when it resonates and varies in pitch, speed, and volume.
3. Make Eye Contact
Direct eye contact should make up 30 to 60% of a conversation: more when you’re listening, and less when you’re speaking. This creates a subconscious sense of connection, and scientists have proven that this phenomenon extends even to drawn or photographed eyes.
Cornell University showed a group of participants several cereal boxes featuring a rabbit. Most often, people chose the box where the rabbit was looking directly at them.
It’s normal to fear eye contact, especially if you’re an anxious person. However, it’s worth working on this habit. Practice making eye contact with yourself in the mirror each morning.
4. Listen to What People Say
We appreciate it when people pay attention to our words. If someone is telling a long, complicated story, you can say, “Just to make sure I understand, did this happen?” This shows your interlocutor that you’re fully engaged and eager to know all the details.
5. Put Yourself Out There
Schedule as many meetings and events as possible. If you don’t attend various gatherings, you’ll have fewer opportunities to meet people, and they won’t get to know you. Even if you don’t feel like going, take a risk and show up! Set your “socialization goals” and don’t go home until you’ve achieved them.
Next time your boss comes too close to your desk, don’t panic. Take on a serious task to make a good impression. Ask for constructive criticism upon completion to show that you care about your work and want to succeed.
6. Acknowledge Your Worth
In your internal dialogue, recognize that your presence, unique qualities, individuality, and character are incredibly important to the world. This positive mindset will help you shine.
7. Ask More Questions
When meeting someone, focus on asking as many questions as possible. People love sharing their stories, so ask for a few details, and you’ll see how they’ll respect you more. Just don’t turn the conversation into an interrogation.
Don’t worry if you don’t understand or find the topic uninteresting. You won’t be known for your ignorance if you politely express your perspective. Be curious: you might not know anything about the subject, but show interest in learning more. What could be more flattering to your interlocutor?
For further reading, check out this insightful article on 9 habits to develop to become more charismatic.
