15 Overlooked Habits That Draw People To You

Being likeable isn’t just about having a pretty face or a charming personality.

It’s about the little things you do every day that make people feel valued, respected, and understood. These habits might seem small or insignificant, but trust me, they add up. And the best part? Anyone can learn them, no matter how awkward or introverted you might feel. Want to get started? Here are 15 overlooked habits that draw people to you like a magnet.

1. Remembering small details about people’s lives

When someone mentions a hobby, a pet, or an upcoming event in their life, make a mental note of it. Then, the next time you see them, ask them about it. Did they finish that book they were reading? How did their dog’s vet appointment go? Remembering these little details shows that you’re not just listening, but that you actually care about what’s going on in their world. It makes people feel seen and valued, and that’s a powerful thing.

2. Being a great listener

Most people are just waiting for their turn to talk. But if you want to draw people to you, you need to be a genuine listener. When someone is speaking, give them your full attention. Make eye contact, nod along, and ask follow-up questions. Don’t just wait for a pause so you can jump in with your own story. Really try to understand their perspective and show that you’re engaged in the conversation. People will appreciate your undivided attention and feel heard.

3. Smiling and making eye contact

It might seem basic, but smiling and making eye contact are two of the most powerful ways to connect with people. When you smile at someone, it sends a signal that you’re friendly and approachable. And when you make eye contact, it shows that you’re confident and engaged in the interaction. Just don’t overdo it and stare them down like a creep. A genuine smile and a warm gaze will go a long way in making people feel comfortable around you.

4. Offering specific compliments

Everyone loves a compliment, but generic flattery can come across as insincere. Instead of just telling someone they look nice, try to be specific about what you appreciate about them. Maybe it’s the way they always make you laugh, or how they handled a tough situation with grace. Pointing out these unique qualities shows that you’re paying attention and that you value them as an individual. Just make sure your compliments are genuine and not over-the-top.

5. Being reliable and following through

If you say you’re going to do something, do it. Whether it’s showing up on time for a meeting or remembering to send that article you promised, being reliable is a rare and valuable quality. People will learn that they can count on you to keep your word, and that builds trust and respect. Don’t be the flake who always cancels at the last minute or forgets to follow up. Show up, follow through, and watch your relationships flourish.

6. Showing vulnerability and authenticity

We all have a tendency to put up walls and present a polished version of ourselves to the world. But if you want to really connect with people, you need to be willing to show some vulnerability. Share a personal story, admit a mistake, or let them see a glimpse of your quirks and imperfections. People are drawn to authenticity, and they’ll appreciate your willingness to be real with them. Just make sure you’re not oversharing or dumping all your baggage on them at once.

7. Being curious and asking questions

People love to talk about themselves, but they rarely get the chance to do so in a genuine, interested way. Be the person who gives them that opportunity. Ask open-ended questions about their lives, their passions, and their experiences. Show that you’re curious about who they are and what makes them tick. Not only will you learn something new, but you’ll also make them feel valued and interesting. Just make sure you’re not interrogating them or prying into sensitive topics.

8. Using people’s names in conversation

There’s a reason why salespeople and politicians are always using people’s names — it’s a powerful way to build rapport and make people feel important. When you use someone’s name in conversation, it shows that you’re paying attention and that you value them as an individual. Just don’t overdo it and use their name in every sentence, or it will start to feel forced and insincere. A well-placed name-drop can work wonders in making people feel special.

9. Being a connector and introducing people

If you know two people who would get along or benefit from knowing each other, don’t keep that information to yourself. Be a connector and introduce them to each other. Not only will you be doing them a favour, but you’ll also be strengthening your own social network. People will appreciate your thoughtfulness and your ability to bring people together. Just make sure you’re not being pushy or forcing connections that don’t make sense.

10. Showing empathy and validating people’s feelings

When someone is going through a tough time or experiencing strong emotions, it can be tempting to try to fix the problem or offer advice. But sometimes, what people really need is just to feel heard and understood. Practice showing empathy by acknowledging their feelings and validating their experience. Say things like, “That must be really tough” or “I can’t imagine how frustrating that must be.” Don’t try to minimise their pain or rush them to move on. Just be there and let them know they’re not alone.

11. Being humble and giving credit where it’s due

No one likes a braggart or a credit hog. If you want to be likeable, practice humility and give credit where it’s due. When you accomplish something, acknowledge the people who helped you get there. When someone else does something great, celebrate their success and give them the spotlight. Don’t try to make everything about you or downplay other people’s achievements. A little humility goes a long way in making people feel appreciated and respected.

12. Having a positive attitude and finding the silver lining

Let’s face it — life can be tough, and it’s easy to get bogged down in negativity and complaining. But if you want to be someone people are drawn to, try to maintain a positive attitude and look for the silver lining in difficult situations. This doesn’t mean being a Pollyanna or ignoring real problems, but it does mean trying to find something good in even the toughest circumstances. People will appreciate your optimism and your ability to lighten the mood.

13. Being a great storyteller and conversationalist

People love a good story, and if you can master the art of storytelling, you’ll always have an audience. Practice crafting engaging, funny, or poignant stories from your own life experiences. Use vivid details, dialogue, and a clear story arc to draw people in. But don’t just be a one-man show — make sure you’re also a great conversationalist who asks questions, listens actively, and builds on what other people are saying. The best conversationalists are the ones who make it feel like a genuine exchange.

14. Showing genuine interest in people’s passions and hobbies

Everyone has something they’re passionate about, whether it’s a hobby, a cause, or a field of study. When someone shares their passion with you, show genuine interest and curiosity. Ask them questions about how they got started, what they love about it, and what challenges they face. Don’t just feign interest or change the subject to something you’d rather talk about. People will light up when they feel like someone is truly interested in what matters to them.

15. Being a great hugger (with consent, of course)

This one might seem a little out there, but hear me out. In a world where we’re increasingly disconnected and touch-starved, a great hug can be a powerful way to bond with someone. Of course, you should always ask for consent before going in for a hug, and respect people’s boundaries if they’re not comfortable with physical touch. But if someone is open to a hug, make it a good one. Not too tight, not too loose, and always with a genuine smile and a warm energy. A great hug can make someone feel seen, valued, and connected — and that’s a powerful thing.