Being more approachable helps put others at ease.
It makes others more open to initiating conversations and helps encourage social harmony in groups.
There are many reasons why others might not find you approachable.
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In other cases, being unapproachable might be linked to having poor interpersonal skills or an anxiety disorder.
How then can you improve your body language to appear more approachable?
Below are ten tips to get you started.
Smile
Although it is possible to overdo smiling, generally it is better to smile versus frown.
verify that you are accessible and open to communication from others.
At a party, hold your drink at your side instead of close to your chest.
Keeping objects between you and others makes you appear guarded and closed.
Keep your head level when walking, meeting people, and during social situations.
Use Eye Contact
When you do end up talking with someone, be sure to maintaineye contact.
Avoiding eye contact makes you appear untrustworthy or disinterested.
They won’t be able to tell the difference.
Stop touching your face or playing with your hair.
Don’t fidget with your pen or the change in your pocket.
Keep your hands relaxed at your sides or use them to gesture when making conversation.
Mirror the Other Person
Use this technique sparingly when appropriate.
Don’t overdo this strategy or it will become obvious what you are doing.
Nod During Conversation
Whenlisteningto someone, nod to show that you are paying attention and interested.
Doing so reinforces for the other person that you want to be involved in the conversation.
This will cause you to stay focused, ask questions, and summarize to verify you understand.
Be Positive
Beyond body language, always be positive.
Say nice things about other people instead of mean things.
Approach others and include those who seem to be left out.
Be a positive person and you will attract other positive people to you.
Characteristics of Approachable People
Being approachable is all about being friendly, open, and welcoming.
Thislikeable person quizwas medically reviewed bySabrina Romanoff, PsyD.
Benefits of Being More Approachable
Approachability comes with many benefits.
In social relationships, being approachable often serves as a way to initiate connections with others.
Find out which option is the best for you.
Potential Pitfalls of Being Unapproachable
Being unapproachable can come with a number of drawbacks.
People who are seen as approachable can overcome barriers in social situations.
They are seen as accessible and are good at helping others feel welcome in social situations.
Their body language, facial expressions, and listening skills help convey their interest in hearing what others say.
How can I be more approachable and make friends?
Simple actions like smiling at others and using good eye contact are great places to start.
Of course, practicing these skills can help you get better at being more approachable and forming new friendships.
Why are anxious people sometimes viewed as unapproachable?
Social anxiety can lead people to give off signals that others misinterpret as being standoffish.
Examples include avoiding eye contact and closed body language.If you have social anxiety, getting treatment can help.
There are effectivetreatmentssuch as medication andcognitive-behavioral therapy(CBT) that will make a difference in your life.
Social Anxiety Disorder: More Than Just Shyness.
National Institute of Mental Health.
2013;8(10):e76825.
doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0076825
Pack R, Columbus L, Duncliffe TH, et al.
