How to be more popular
Do you want people to like you more? Think of you as attractive, but also as one of them? Try nodding more, suggests new research. This simple, non-verbal gesture may do wonders for your popularity.
Two Japanese researchers investigated how those who nod often are perceived, as compared with those who are more prone to shaking their head.
Nodding frequently makes you 30 per cent more popular and more attractive too. Just as long as it’s natural.
The researchers asked participants to rate the likability of computer-generated figures to arrive at their results.
The researchers asked 49 Japanese adults aged 18 and above to watch short clips of figures nodding, shaking their head, or staying still.
The participants then had to rate the figures' attractiveness, approachability, and likability, using a scale from 0 to 100.
Overall, the study revealed that the nodding figures were rated as 30 per cent more likable and 40 per cent more approachable than the motionless figures or the figures that shook their head.
What do you think? Do you find people that nod frequently more approachable?
Quote.. Do you want people to like you more? Think of you as attractive, but also as one of them?
Personally..I believe if someone is confident and knows what they are talking about..then they don’t need “nodding” for the above purposes..having said that.. nodding is very contagious and can be a great advantage I have found..I don’t mean the Nodding Dog type of nodding we see in some people’s cars that irritate..no I am talking about subtle nodding.
Learning to navigate social situations is really very important and I don’t think it’s about wanting to be popular..more about getting people interested in your ideas.. and.. anything that helps is good in my book…showing feelings is very important in my opinion as long as one doesn't go too overboard...
In my experience I have found that learning to nod at the right time can be very instrumental in getting a point across..and to do this it really is paying attention to the speaker..for to nod at the wrong moment can get you into trouble..however..I believe it’s not only the head that matters it’s what emotions the eyes show..for me they are both very important…they work in tandem…
It’s really quite funny how people will mimic your nodding without knowing it..once they start copying your behaviour..chances are they’re more likely to agree with you and trust you..your idea is taking shape in their heads..if you’re a salesman..you may very likely walk away with a sale and if trying to get an idea across..you may be home and dry..