IQ, EQ - forget that says my mentor, Allen Pathmarajah - it's all about having a big LQ!
Likeable Quotient!
What makes a big LQ ?
To increase your odds of starting new relationships with others, you need to be aware of how likable you are!
Having traits that are appealing to others is key. To the outgoing person on a first day of work, energy, excitement, and an invitation to happy hour with a large group of friends works like magic. To the introvert, a quiet lunch with two peers from the same department will do the trick.
But honesty is the most appealing, non-negotiable, and transcending trait of all.
Honesty is a skill that, when mastered, works wonders in squashing ambiguity, setting boundaries, and diffusing conflict. It is one of the keys to make a strong leader.
With honesty - you also need a dose of EQ! Emotional honesty isn't license to offend and speak your mind without filters.
Honest people are well-liked because they are fair, considerate, respectful, listen to all sides, and hold themselves and others to a higher standard.
They don't sweep wrongdoing or injustice under the carpet.
It means, perhaps, ending a relationship, firing an employee, or severing a partnership that no longer defines their true nature. More the reason for their likability.
Honest leaders command the respect of people around them. It's a fundamental quality of trust!
How do you become more honest?
1. Get rid of your masks
Don't play mental games or manipulate: Speak your mind and don't rely on cryptic hints or other passive-aggressive tactics to get tour point across.
2. Be true to yourself, - don't kid yourself or others - people will respect you for what you are! Be true to yourself regardless of the outside pressures or temptations to act otherwise. Accept the consequences of being true to what you consider to be right, at the core of your being.
3. Have integrity: - DI the right thing - it's more important than doing things right!
4. Deal with problems seamlessly:
When you're honest with yourself and others, you have the strength and openness to deal with problems quickly, instead of procrastinating, avoiding conflict, or sweeping things under the rug.
5. Know where you are headed:
Have a plan! Don't cave in to others dictating your course. Take control of your life and move forward with confidence.