Likeability In Business

Likeability in Business

How social skills make and break careers

© KSW 2009

People would rather work with someone they like —even if that person is incompetent

Harvard Business Review 2005 Non-profit (NGO) – For profit Large – Small North American – European

Competence – Likeability

Competent jerk

Loveable fool

Loveable star

Incompetent jerk

What they found…

Loveable Star

Incompetent Jerk

Competent Jerk

Loveable Fool

What makes someone likeable?

The ability to “connect” with people Being interested in, and liking others Positive attitude

Don’t be “shy”—come out and talk

Being shy and being introverted are not the same thing

Be conscious of the messages you might be sending

Social skills can be learned and improved

Beware of “TMI”

Too much information can make you seem crass, rude and vulgar

Don’t over share and don’t pry

Share Credit

Make sure team members get credit for their contributions

Be generous with your time and praise Let people know their ideas will be heard

and valued

Accept Responsibility

Everyone makes mistakes—own up to yours

Don’t waste time trying to shift blame Immediately start looking for

opportunities…

Show interest in others

Ask questions Use listening

“prompts” Celebrate and

Commiserate

Build up your Social Skills

Convey confidence and approachability Discover how to read people Practice conversation

Seek help, support and guidance when you need it

www.karensouthallwatts.com