Mr. Popularity
At one time or another, we have all probably worked or associated with someone whose performance begged the question, “how the heck did they get that job?” In most cases, they probably knew someone who pulled some strings or was influential in getting them the opportunity. Apparently it is not what you know, but who.
A study published in the Harvard Business Review concluded that a person’s likeability factor–having multi-dimensional appeal–is more important than education and experience when it comes to getting hired or promoted.
In his best selling book, “The L Factor,” business guru, Tim Sanders, goes on to point out that people do business with, vote for, and spend precious time among those they like. In other words, those around you have the ability to make decisions about your health, wealth, and happiness.
If likeability is such an influential force, does your personal brand reflect it? A combination of personality traits can positively strengthen your appeal.
- Friendliness. Do you say “hi” or smile when you pass someone in the hall? Do you thank people for holding a door or the elevator? How do you treat those individuals (e.g., assistants, food servers, housekeepers, etc.) in positions seemingly “less important” than yours?
- Empathy. Can you recognize, acknowledge, and experience other people’s feelings? Do you strive to uplift those around you who could use the support?
- A Good Sport. Do you celebrate the victories and accomplishments of others?
- Authentic. Are you diplomatic in your dealings? Do you treat people differently based on their socioeconomic status? Does the rumor mill stop at your office?
- Well-read. Do you read between six and 12 books a year? Are there specific newspapers, news sites, or blogs that you read daily? Do your sources vary in subject category and interest?
- Well informed. Are you up-to-date on local, national and international current events?
- Political involvement. Can you articulate different party’s positions regardless of your affiliation?
- Hobbies. Do you participate in extracurricular activities? Fishing, team sports, crafts, hiking, bicycling, swimming, camping, skiing, or boating?
- Sports. Do you [at the very least] know who won the last Super Bowl? U.S. Open? World Series? World Cup? Daytona 500? Kentucky Derby?
- Charities. Are you involved (time and/or money) in charitable, non-profit, service, or religious organizations?
- Professional development. Do you attend seminars, workshops, or continuing education program to stay current on new developments in your industry? When you do, how willing are you to share the information with your colleagues and contacts who could also benefit from it?
- Diversity. Does your network of friends include people from all walks of life and backgrounds? Do you go out of your way to learn about and experience other cultures?
- Well traveled. Do you take the opportunity to explore your city, state, country and the world? I have learned just as much about culture, art and architecture by taking a walking tour of downtown Los Angeles as I did during a two-week trip to Africa.
Wherever you stand on the likeability spectrum, the good news is there are always opportunities to better your position. The real question is, “Are you game?”
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