Avoid these social mistakes to make a good impression

When it comes to likeability, it might seem that some people are more blessed than others. You might have the sense that we naturally gravitate to certain people over others. While that may be true to some extent, there are also certain behaviors that likeable people never exhibit. Luckily, if you are guilty of one or more of these behaviors, there are plenty of things you can do to change that.

Intrigued? Check out this gallery to find out which traits make people unlikeable, and how to avoid them.

Humblebragging

If there is one conversation technique to avoid when it comes to being liked, it's humblebragging. In other words, don’t hide a brag or achievement behind a casual comment.

An example of a humblebrag might be, "I need to buy a new car, but I’m having such a hard time choosing between a Mercedes and a Porsche."

If you want to celebrate a success or achievement, address it directly. Any other approach just comes off as inauthentic and cringey.

Overseriousness

It is also a good idea, if you can, to avoid an overserious attitude. Of course, it is important to apply yourself and take your work and relationships seriously.

However, try not to let your focus bleed into your casual, everyday conversations. When chatting to others, don’t be afraid to smile and/or crack a joke.

Lack of engagement

Another important behavior to avoid is lack of engagement. Perhaps stating the obvious, but nobody likes to feel ignored during a conversation.

Try to practice active listening during your conversations with others; ask pertinent questions, and take the time to summarize what they’ve said in your own words.

If you can, try to maintain eye contact throughout your conversation with another person, and leave your phone in your pocket and on silent mode.

Lack of emotional intelligence

Emotionally unintelligent people will often exhibit behaviors such as making conversations all about themselves, bullying people, and lying to avoid consequences.

Name-dropping

Another unattractive behavior, and perhaps one that is easier to eradicate, is name-dropping, i.e. mentioning that you know or have come across someone influential or famous.

Indeed, name-dropping will not gain you any respect or credit from those around you. It will just make it look like you’re relying on someone else’s status to elevate your own.

Spreading rumors

While spreading rumors may win you a few connections in the short term, in the long run it will make you seem shallow, mean, and insecure.

Oversharing

While there is nothing wrong with opening up to people close to you and being vulnerable, it is important to establish that relationship first.

Some people think that sharing intimate personal information with others is a great way to build a connection, but actually that isn’t normally the case.

Complaining

Of course, that doesn’t mean you can’t get away with the odd "traffic was terrible this morning" comment. Just don’t go overboard.

One-upping

It is also important to avoid one-upping, or, in other words, showing off and making sure you always come across better than the other person.

Instead of instantly making the conversation about you, take the time to give compliments and acknowledge the other person’s achievements.

Unreliability

Forgetting the odd commitment is unlikely to ruin a relationship, but not showing up for a person time and time again is a surefire way to make enemies.

In order to stay organized and on top of your commitments, make sure you know how to say no when you have too much on your plate.

Sources: (wikiHow)