I ran across this article today online -
Think about the most charismatic person you know, and you will discover that he or she has developed all of these traits. Some of them may have come naturally; others possibly took a lot of concentrated effort. This list is not meant to be exhaustive. Rather, these are some obvious traits that you’ll see.
I’m willing to bet that with some practice, you can develop these characteristics, too!
1. Keep Smiling – When you smile at people, you will make them feel good about themselves, and they will appreciate you for it.
2. Try Not to Argue – When you find yourself wanting to argue, say something like, “go on” or “I hear you.” Charismatic people listen well, seek to understand, and they will rarely opening contradict you.
3. Give at Least Three Compliments Every Day - It you do, you’ll be amazed at how different people treat to you. It can be a comment about someone’s dress or personal appearance. It can be as simple as, “My, you’re in a good mood today, ” or “you did a great job on that assignment.
4. Make an Effort to Physically Touch Three People Each Day – Touch a co-worker, your business associate or customer on the arm, pat her on the back, or give a friendly hug. Your efforts at physical closeness will allow those around you to do the same.
5. Mirror the Positive Emotions of Those Around You - If someone is excited about her new car, you should show excitement too. If they’re smiling as they tell you a story, smile along with them.
6. Maintain Eye Contact When Someone is Speaking to You – When you maintain eye contact, it makes people feel as though you are really tuned in, listening and responsive.
7. Work on Your Sense of Humor - Try to tell one or two jokes a day. Charismatic people make us feel good about ourselves by lightening the mood.
Which ones come naturally to you? Which ones will you make an effort to cultivate?
