Likability is now a very social factor, and it has external influences that increase and decrease its potential. When a child is born, they are told to cater to their environment in a way that makes them much more likable to the people around them. They are able to conform to their external needs and make sure they do not do something that might make people dislike them. They might speak politely, smile more, or simply just change themselves for their external validation.
Asma Jan Muhammad, the author of Reflections, bases emphasis on how a woman’s likeability decreases when they do not conform to the societal expectations that surround them. They are discouraged when taking leadership roles. Once a woman decides to make choices for themselves, it becomes a societal issue where almost every passerby has an opinion on her choices. The more she moves away from her conventional image, people tend to increase their opinion on the subject of relativity. This book helps a person understand multiple perspectives which are often sidelined and disregarded in society. Things such as optimism biases, greed, empathy, letting go, and various others. She has been able to analyze her perspective, form an opinion from scratch, and write down things that challenged her presumptions. This book is a great way to learn how certain aspects of ourselves may be liked by society, and some might go out of this small sphere of existence.
There are multiple things that alter our likeability in society, such as:
Physical Appearance
External appearance can impact likeability. Research has shown that individuals who are conventionally attractive tend to be perceived as more likable. Facial attractiveness, grooming, and body language can all influence how others perceive and respond to an individual.
Verbal and Nonverbal Communication
The way individuals communicate through their words, tone of voice, and body language can affect their likeability. Effective communication skills, such as active listening, empathy, and positive nonverbal cues (e.g., smiling and maintaining eye contact), can enhance likeability.
Social Skills and Behavior
How individuals interact with others and demonstrate social skills can influence likeability. People who display kindness, warmth, respect, and good manners tend to be viewed as more likable. Conversely, behaviors such as rudeness, aggression, or selfishness can negatively impact likeability.
Reputation and Social Proof
Likeability can be influenced by a person’s reputation or how others perceive them. Positive recommendations, testimonials, or feedback from others can enhance likeability. Similarly, if someone is seen as well-liked by their peers or has a strong social network, it can positively influence perceptions of their likeability.
Media and Popularity
External sources such as media, advertising, and social media platforms can shape perceptions of likeability. Celebrity endorsements, social media influencers, and the portrayal of certain qualities or lifestyles in media can impact how individuals are perceived and deemed likeable.
Context and Situational Factors
Likeability can also be influenced by the specific context or situation. Factors such as shared interests, common goals, or being part of a particular group can affect how likable someone is perceived to be in a given setting.
Likeability is a subjective matter and should be a factor that forces a person to change themselves for the people around them. They should be willing to accept themselves the way they are and try their best to stay authentic and beautiful.