Devin Jacobs
Some conversations stay with you for days, while others fade immediately. The difference usually comes down to how the speaker makes you feel. So, experts point out that there are specific behaviors anyone can practice to create that effect naturally. Let’s talk about the 10 expert-approved habits that make people instantly like you during chats.
Maintain Consistent Eye Contact To Show Respect
Steady eye contact signals that you are fully attentive and engaged. It makes the person you’re speaking to feel respected and valued. People also tend to remember conversations more vividly when eye contact is maintained, reinforcing connection and trust in every interaction.
Ask Open‑Ended Questions That Invite Sharing
Questions that spark real answers—not just “yes” or “no”—invite people to open up. They make others feel valued. Ask kids an interactive question and watch what happens: you’ll get hilarious, unexpected responses that turn small talk into a genuine connection.
Mirror Emotions And Tone To Convey Empathy
It means that you understand and relate to their feelings. This simple practice builds trust quickly and strengthens rapport. Even without realizing it, friends naturally mirror each other, and performers like comedians also use it to connect with their audiences more effectively.
Use People’s Names Naturally To Build Connection
Drop someone’s name naturally while chatting, and watch them engage more. It signals recognition and respect. People literally perk up when they hear their own name—it makes them feel seen. Over time, this habit can even lead to playful nicknames that strengthen your bond.
Offer Genuine Compliments During Dialogue
Sharing sincere compliments highlights your appreciation for others and brings positivity to any conversation. Kind words can instantly lift someone’s mood, thereby creating a warmer atmosphere. Even brief praise directed at strangers can spark smiles, proving that acknowledgment and gratitude make dialogue more enjoyable and meaningful.
Paraphrase Key Points To Confirm Understanding
When you summarize what someone shared, you’re showing them you care enough to understand. It prevents those frustrating “that’s not what I meant” moments. Skilled communicators use this trick all the time, as it makes even difficult conversations feel manageable because both people stay on the same page.
Share Brief Relatable Anecdotes Without Shifting Focus
Share quick stories that relate to what they’re saying, but keep them brief. The goal is building connection through shared experiences, and not stealing the spotlight. Your story should support what they’re saying instead of taking over the conversation. So when done right, it keeps the conversation balanced and engaging.
Maintain A Warm Tone Consistently In Conversation
Speaking with a consistently warm tone conveys approachability and friendliness. It also reassures others that they can speak freely and encourages more open communication. Professionals like radio hosts rely on warmth to engage audiences, and even reading a story aloud feels more inviting when delivered with a gentle, friendly cadence.
Express Appreciation Verbally In Real Time
Say “thank you” right the moment someone helps or shares something meaningful. Immediate appreciation shows genuine gratitude and makes people feel valued on the spot. These small acknowledgments brighten someone’s day and stick with them long after. A simple, timely “thanks” leaves a lasting impression of respect and kindness.
Lean Forward When Listening To Signal Interest
Shift your body forward when listening—it’s a clear signal you’re engaged. This small gesture shows genuine interest and makes people feel like what they’re saying matters. You don’t need to be obvious about it; even a slight lean communicates curiosity and attention that speakers notice and appreciate.