How to Make People Like You and Want to be Your Friend

Making and keeping friends is one of life's great rewards.

It may sometimes seem as if making and keeping friends is difficult, but making an effort at being sociable while engaging in activities you enjoy will present opportunities to make and keep friends. People gravitate to those who are open, positive, and good listeners with mutual interests. Developing those attributes will lead to one of the most rewarding aspects of life -- friendship.

Instructions

1. Smile. Everyone likes a positive, cheerful person, and the best way to project a happy attitude is by smiling. Glimpse in the mirror at social events -- if your "default" face is a frown or a scowl, remind yourself every few minutes to smile. Project openness and friendliness with your body language. Keep your arms at your sides rather than crossed in front of your chest, which can be perceived as unfriendly.

2. Cultivate listening skills. Ask people what traits they like best in friends and "good listener" will be at the top of most lists. Look people in the eye while they speak, and occasionally nod to show them you're listening. Ask meaningful questions, and avoid interrupting. Show genuine interest in the people you meet by truly listening to them.

3. Get involved. Woody Allen once said that eighty percent of success is showing up. Turn off the TV or computer, find social events in your area and show up. Meetup.com is a great resource for finding people with common interests, whether it's hiking, reiki or bowling. Trivia nights are also a great place to make friends, since you play on an interactive team. Make it a point to introduce yourself to at least three new people at such events.

4. Compliment freely. People like being around others who make them feel good about themselves. Give at least three compliments daily to coworkers, acquaintances, even strangers. For example, tell your neighbor her garden is looking beautiful or point out that your coworker has made an excellent observation.

References

• Success Creations; Six Ways to Make People Like You; August 2006
• The Happiness Project; Friendship: Seven Tips for Making New Friends

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish