In a world where reputation is everything – and can be easily measured – being likeable is considered a soft skill. While some may think you’ve either got it or you haven’t, it can be learned. First though, how do you know if you’re likeable or not? In this article, we’re exploring the six best ways to see how likeable you are.

How Do I Know If I’m Likeable?

Well, that’s easy – you’re likeable if you get invited to lots of parties, right? Wrong. Lots of people tend to mistake popularity with likeability but they’re actually very different things.

Likeability is an elusive quality but genuinely likeable people do share some common traits including:

• A genuine interest in others
• A warmth that draws people in
• A heightened sense of empathy
• Reliability and an unwillingness to let others down

Generally speaking, we see a person as likeable by how they make us feel. Have you ever thought of it this way?  Well, it goes without saying that a likeable person will rarely make others feel anxious, angry or unsettled. Instead, a likeable person makes us feel valued and heard.

Likeable people will also often have the elusive quality that we call charisma – something that makes them the centre of attention without being a show off. All of the qualities that we’ve highlighted here are things that, with a little work, can be learned.

The 6 Best Ways To See How Likeable You Are

Most of us know someone whom others seem to flock toward but how do you know if you’re one of them ? In this article, we’re revealing some of the clues that show how likeable you are:

1. Getting along to get on

Likeability is all about our relationships with other people – and that includes friends. Generally speaking, a likeable person will make new friends and acquaintances frequently. A person without the likeability X factor might, however, have the same set of friends for many years without change. Both our personal and professional lives rely on our relationships with others. Because of this, it’s impossible to exaggerate the importance of likeability.

2. Learning your likeability score

Particularly useful for those with busy lives, an online Likeability Test like the one offered by ZandaX is a great way of finding out how likable you are. Free and fast, the test calculates your likeability through your responses to some simple but insightful questions. This is an important first step for those who are serious about improving their overall likeability. And remember, there are no wrong answers. This is simply a way of figuring out how others see you – so you must be honest with your responses!

3. A steady hand

Reliability is a big part of likeability for a number of reasons. If you’re a person known for always showing up – and on time – you’ll usually score big on the likeability scale. If, however, you have a reputation for being a bit flaky, your likeability will often plummet. When we are constantly late or we cancel plans, we’re perceived as putting ourselves before others. This also sends a message that we feel our time is more important than anybody else’s. Needless to say, these things will very much harm our likeability.

4. Valued input

Likeable people often find that others will seek out their opinion or advice on matters both personal and professional. One reason for this is that likeable people tend to be approachable. They will also often be able to see both sides of an issue or problem. Less likeable people will sometimes appear unapproachable – even if this is not intended. Similarly, people whose likeability needs a little work can sometimes come across as opinionated. As the old saying goes; “when you speak, you’re repeating what you know. When you listen, you might learn something new”.

5. Likeability for lucrative careers

Career success will often appear easy for likeable people. This can be due to the fact that they are seen to have great people skills which is essential for management. Less likeable people can sometimes be seen to be difficult and / or bad communicators which can hinder career progress. Being likeable can definitely be seen as a soft skill at work. When we come across as someone who is reliable, empathetic and open to input, we’re more likely to get ahead. Likeable people tend to be very much team players and this is something you can easily improve through an online course in relationship building.

6. Checking the check-ins

These days, we have countless ways of keeping in touch with others. From phone and email to digital messaging, it takes just seconds to reach out to others. Have a think about how often you contact others just to see how they’re doing. Similarly, have a look at how often others check in with you. This can provide a vital insight into your likeability. Likeable people tend to stay connected with others on a regular basis. Less likable people might, however, only make contact when they want or need something. This will often label a person who is in the habit of using others for their own benefit.

How To Be More Likeable

As we mentioned at the top of this article, some people may think that they’re either likeable or you’re not. The truth is that it is in fact possible to improve your likeability. You can even take a likeability course online which will help you to identify problem areas and make improvements. Rather than changing your personality, you just need to become more aware of your interactions with others. It also equips you to make the small tweaks that will improve your likeability and your overall reputation.

If you’re ready to boost your likeability for a happier, more successful future, start today…