According to psychologist Daniel Kahneman, there’s one simple thing you can do to make people instantly like you thanks to what’s known as the “halo effect”.
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The halo effect is our tendency to like — or strongly dislike — someone, regardless of how well you actually know them, based on one character trait or experience with that person.
Humans tend to form an instant emotional response to new people, rather than rationally evaluating that person’s qualities and then forming an emotional response.
This makes first impressions hugely important, so how can you always create the best first impression possible and make yourself super popular?
Apparently, the key is genuine, friendly small talk and appearing up-to-date and informed about current events. So instead of chatting about the weather, talk about last night’s baseball game or whatever you read on the news that morning.
By appearing agreeable and clued-up, it creates a positive halo effect and people will instantly warm to you, whether it’s work colleagues or a first date.
So read the news and go make some friends!