Hey, I think I like you…
So, what makes us instantly like someone? Here are some general research principles:
- We like good-looking people
Studies show time after time that we not only appreciate a physically attractive stranger, we also bestow upon them all sorts of positive personality traits… even before he’s opened his mouth! It’s called the Halo Effect because we take one positive attribute (good looks) and multiply it into many more glowing traits! - We like people who like us
Ladies, this one is put into frequent use at the make-up counter. “Wow, you really have beautiful green eyes. I have just the eye-liner to make them stand out even more!” Flattery has unbelievable influence on us – we tend to believe the praise people give us, and in turn like the person giving it. - We like people who are similar to us
In new groups, we often gravitate toward people who share similar values, experiences, and interests. We judge this by how people dress (are they dressed like me?), how old they are, and by what they talk about. We find them easy to talk to and credible! - We like to be associated with winners
“Be like Mike”, “Bend it like Beckham”, and “Livestrong!”. Studies at the University of Texas have shown that when the U.T. football team wins, sales of U.T. shirts, hats, bags, and flags soar. The reason is simple: we like to be associated with winners.
The bottom line? We respond positively to those we like. And, conversely, the more people like YOU, the better response you’ll get.