Some people seem to be effortlessly likable. It’s not because they’re always agreeable. It’s not because they go out of their way to compliment everyone. And it’s definitely not because they’re trying to be liked.
Here’s the rule they follow: They make others feel seen.
Whether it’s a colleague, client, barista, or neighbor, highly likable people consistently show genuine interest and curiosity in other people. They don’t throw around big gestures or declarations — they do it through small, everyday habits that signal warmth, attentiveness, and respect.
As a keynote speaker, LinkedIn Learning Instructor, and author of “Unforgettable Presence,” I’ve worked with ambitious professionals across Fortune 500 companies and startups, helping them build stronger relationships.
I often tell them that being likable matters. People want to work with people they genuinely like. But that doesn’t mean being fake or disingenuous, and it’s not some innate personality trait. Likability is a skill, and anyone can learn it.
Here are five habits of highly likable people:
1. They remember the small stuff
That project you mentioned last week? They follow up to see how it’s going. The iced matcha you always order? They remember it on a coffee run. Your kid’s soccer game? They ask how it went.
These are all subtle signs that they’re actually listening to you when you share about your life.
Remembering small details is one of the easiest ways to show someone you care. It says: “You matter enough for me to remember.”
Try this: After a meeting or casual chat, jot down one detail you learned about the other person. Maybe your coworker has an upcoming presentation to senior leadership or your friend despises mushrooms. Next time you see that coworker, ask how it went. Next time you order pizza with that friend, pick another topping.
2. They give credit freely
Their favorite phrase might be: “That was [X person]’s great idea.”
They spotlight teammates, friends, and collaborators without hesitation, especially in public. You’ll hear them say “Maria suggested…” more often than “I decided…”
Giving credit builds trust and loyalty. People want to work with, hang out with, and support those who elevate others.
Try this: In your next group setting, whether it’s an email, team meeting, or dinner conversation, give someone credit for their insight or contribution. It costs nothing and leaves a lasting impression.
3. They respond to everyone
It doesn’t matter if it’s a CEO or an intern. Everyone gets a reply.
That doesn’t mean they say yes to everything. But they treat every message as worthy of acknowledgment, even if it’s brief.
It signals respect. People remember how you make them feel, and being ignored never makes someone feel good.
Try this: Don’t ghost. If you need more time to reply thoughtfully, even a quick, “Thanks for this. I’ll take a look by Tuesday,” can go a long way toward building trust.
4. They admit when they’re wrong
You’ll hear them say, “That’s on me,” or, “You’re right, I missed that.”
Instead of pretending they have all the answers, they own their mistakes — and invite others to do the same.
Admitting fault builds more trust than appearing perfect. Vulnerability makes you more relatable and credible.
Try this: Next time you’re tempted to get defensive, try saying: “You’re right, I should’ve handled that differently.” It opens the door for real connection and mutual respect.
5. They make time for ‘unimportant’ conversations
Those two-minute hallway chats. The small talk before a meeting. The “What was the highlight of your weekend?” check-ins.
Highly likable people treat these interactions as meaningful, not optional. They’re present, even during quick exchanges.
These moments may feel small on their own, but they compound over time. They humanize you and help build stronger relationships.
Try this: The next time you catch yourself rushing through a conversation, pause, ask one more question, and listen closely to the answer. Being fully present leaves a lasting impact.
Lorraine K. Lee is an award-winning keynote speaker and CEO of RISE Learning Solutions. She’s also the best-selling author of “Unforgettable Presence: Get Seen, Gain Influence, and Catapult Your Career,” which was named a must-read by the Next Big Idea Club. She teaches popular courses with LinkedIn Learning and Stanford Continuing Studies. Past clients include Zoom, Cisco, LinkedIn, ASICS, McKinsey & Company, and many others.
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