How To Be More Approachable In Any Situation: 16 Strategies

This new article will show you everything you need to know about how to be more approachable in any situation.

Simple body language modifications can make you more approachable, especially when you want to get the attention of strangers or acquaintances. If you show humility, credibility, and confidence, people who already know you will want to approach you for a more serious chat.

Adjusting your behavior in this way takes work, but the effort pays off because you will make deeper and more successful connections.

How To Be More Approachable In Any Situation:

1. Adopt a relaxed, open posture.

Instead of leaning forward, your head should be raised and your shoulders should be straight. Lean back gently in your chair to feel more comfortable. This posture keeps your face open to the world, rather than fenced off and hostile.

2. Maintain a friendly posture with your hands.

Your arms should be at your sides or on your knees. If you are holding something or making movements, keep your arms at your side or near your lower torso. Cross your arms or raise your hands in front of your chest to avoid an unfriendly posture. Although psychological research is inconclusive, an enthusiastic posture with your hands raised above your head can make it harder to approach you.

3. Make a satisfied face.

Smiling can make you seem instantly more sympathetic and friendly. On the other hand, a fake or forced smile is not as effective. To bring a genuine smile to your face, recall a good memory or a funny joke.

Smiling can also make you feel happier.

4. Look each other in the eye.

People are much more likely to approach someone who looks them in the eye than someone who looks away or avoids their gaze. A smile and prolonged eye contact can make all the difference. If you want to try something a little more flirtatious, here are some other options aimed at ladies:

Make eye contact for a few seconds, smile slightly, and then gently move your head away to look at something else that dares you to flirt.

Make brief eye contact with someone looking in your direction to play cute and innocent, then look down or in another direction and smile.

5. Keep things away from your face.

Sunglasses, hats, and scarves make it difficult to see your face. Even if they don’t directly obstruct your view, their psychological impact can make you seem more isolated and harder to approach.

SEE ALSO: How To Not Absorb Other People’s Emotions: 20 Strategies

6. Remove all distracting objects from the room.

Other people may not want to disturb you if you are checking your phone or reading a book. You may miss glances, smiles, and other signals that could lead to dialogue.

7. Take care of your appearance.

Although it may seem superficial, people who put effort into their appearance may seem friendlier. Consider things like ironing your clothes, dressing well, and even giving yourself a style makeover.

Try the “peacock feather” method. Wear things that stand out, such as unique jewelry or belts, to get people to notice and comment on them. They are a fantastic conversation starter.

8. Take care of your personal hygiene.

Wash your body and hair regularly (1), brush your teeth, and trim your nails. Wear clean clothes and get rid of mold in your home, which can cause odors to linger on clothing or accessories.

9. Take an interest in the lives of others.

When talking to another person, ask a few questions about their life and try to listen more than talk. The person may start a more detailed conversation if they are willing to introduce themselves, and they will be grateful for your attention. Practice doing this to gain a reputation as an empathetic and accessible person.

If you have trouble picking up on social cues, learn to observe people. To interact more effectively with others, hone your social skills and try to empathize with their problems and opinions.

10. Make a habit of occasional compliments.

For others in your life, they come as a pleasant and heartfelt surprise. When you drive by, compliment someone’s appearance, recent actions, or behavior. By doing so, you can improve her mood, increase your reputation as a nice person, and maybe even start a complimenting trend.

SEE ALSO: How To Stay Productive While Working Remotely: 16 Top Tips

11. Think of topics for discussion.

Being nice is only half the battle when meeting new people. You need to convince them to stay with you. Before you attend a meeting, make a list of topics to talk about. Stick to topics that interest you, but try to bring up at least one more “popular” topic, such as the latest movie or sports news, as you will be more likely to meet someone who shares your passion.

Use open-ended questions (2) to encourage participants to provide more information than a simple “yes” or “no.”

Ensure that your talks are tailored to the type of event or venue you are attending. If your audience consists primarily of students, you can discuss current events on campus or an academic issue. You can discuss the band, person, or play that everyone has gathered around for concerts and many other events.

12. Prepare answers to frequently asked questions.

“How’s it going?” someone asks. “Good.” -you reply. On the other hand, this dialogue has gone nowhere. Prepare for typical questions like these by telling the other person about something noteworthy that has happened in your life. Instead of uncomfortable silence, this can lead to real dialogue.

13. Determine how to deal with cultural biases.

Stereotypes, workplace politics, and even fashion preferences can discourage someone from approaching you. Ask about the etiquette in your new city, workplace, or other community. Many biases are unavoidable, such as those based on gender, age, or race.

However, keep in mind that many reflex reactions are based on “implicit biases,” which are unconscious and instinctive reactions that may not reflect the other person’s point of view. You may see a very different reaction if you make an attempt to start a discussion or make contact.

14. Stay away from malicious comments and gossip.

Mean statements, even humorous ones, can irritate people and make you seem unpleasant and unkind. Avoid gossip at all costs, as it can tarnish your reputation as someone who spreads secrets or acts behind the backs of others.

If at all possible, avoid talking about politics or religion.

15. Try to include others in the discussion.

In the discussion, leave room for the new person, introduce him or ask his name. If he seems embarrassed, tell him a joke. Don’t assume someone wants to be alone because they don’t participate in discussions or attend social gatherings. If you make the effort to approach others, you will be able to make more and stronger friendships.

16. Take the secret seriously when you discover it.

Show them that you are trustworthy. Those around you can see your trustworthy behavior if you keep your commitments and avoid compromising someone’s trust, even if you actively despise them. Even if you learn about a secret from someone else, don’t help spread it.

I want to thank you for taking the time to read my article about how to be more approachable in any situation. I sincerely hope its contents have been a good help to you.

Przemkas Mosky
Przemkas Mosky started Perfect 24 Hours in 2017. He is a Personal Productivity Specialist, blogger and entrepreneur. He also works as a coach assisting people to increase their motivation, social skills or leadership abilities. Read more here