5 Ways to Make People Want to Talk to You at Work - The Muse

5 Ways to Make People Want to Talk to You at Work - The Muse5 Ways to Make People Want to Talk to You at WorkIs there someone in your office who people are just drawn to?Maybe they know all the good news before everyone else. Or, theyre the first person your boss turns to for advice. Or, they command just about every meeting they enter.Im going to shatter all your They must have super powers thoughts, because getting people to want to talk to you is a skill anyone can acquire. I mean anyone.All you need to do is copy these five habits of approachable people1. They SmileYup, its that simple. Smiling, according to research, leid only makes you look more friendly and approachable, its contagious- meaning your good vibes rub off on your peers. And when people are happy, theyre more engaged in discussion.Now, approachable people dont smile all the time (because then theyd look crazy). No, they know when its appropriate- and when its better to put on a more serious, determined face.2. They Listen (and Dont Judge)In one of our deeper discussions, my dad made an alarming accurate observation that still sticks with me to this day. Alyse, he said, youre a great listener, but youre so quick to give advice that you dont always just let people vent.And he was right Not to pat myself on the back, but I cared so much about helping people that when they told me their problems, I immediately jumped to giving the best suggestions I could think of. I didnt stop to question if they actually wanted my help- or just wanted someone to listen to them.Popular people are not only active listeners (a.k.a., they dont stare at their phones in conversations), but they also dont impose their own views on others. They receive information without judgment, and only when asked, provide feedback and encouragement.3. Theyre Not Afraid to Be VulnerableThis may sound odd- who wants to share their problems with someone who has enough of their own?- but showing vulnerability makes people feel like th eyre not alone, and that they can trust youll understand where theyre coming from. If you can share your problems and discuss your flaws openly and confidently, it encourages people to do the same.On the flip side, always appearing perfect can make you less approachable- not because people arent impressed or proud of your success, but because they may find you intimidating or fear your judgment.4. They Have Killer Body LanguageJust like smiling has the power to change peoples moods, great body language can make others open up to you more frequently.According to body language expert Vanessa Van Edwards, instigating the triple nod, or nodding your head three times, convinces people to speak three to four times longer. This also means avoiding body language that closes you off from others, such as crossing your arms or looking away.5. They Ask QuestionsThis tip comes from Muse writer Ivy Shelden, who had success at a networking event as a result of this habit. She realized asking quest ions to the speaker does two things It provides the opportunity to be seen and heard by the entire audience at once- and it makes you more memorable to the speaker as well. As a result, people come up to you.So, how can you practice this on a daily basis? Dont be afraid to approach people with questions or raise your hand in meetings. Your curiosity will mimic that of others- making people want to bounce ideas off you. And, it shows that vulnerable side of you thats OK with not knowing everything (and like I said earlier, this is an attractive quality). And, it even makes you look smarter- and who doesnt want to talk to someone whos smart?And thats it Five easy ways to become more likable, approachable, and ultimately the number one person people turn to for a nice conversation, venting session, inspiration, or advice.Riding the train of popularity? Why not test out these six fast ways to seem more interesting to anyone you meet.