Likeability - What Does That Even Mean!?

When you attend a job interview, it's often thought that the most qualified candidate will get the job. The person with the most relevant experience. But there's one other characteristic that has a huge impact on whether you're successful in bagging the job: Likeability.

In a survey by CareerBuilder, 70% of employers said that likability plays a role in their hiring decisions. So we know it's important. But what actually IS likeability?

Likeability is basically whether you're perceived as pleasant, friendly, and easy to get along with. The confusing thing is.. likeability is subjective. One interviewer could love you while another isn't so sure. It's impossible to please everyone, but there are some fairly failsafe ways you can present your most likeable self.

• Build a rapport with the interviewer. Don't just jump straight into business. Try to sandwich the interview with some small talk and get to know them a little. Remember that your interviewer has likely been asking people questions about themselves all day - it's nice for them to be asked some questions by you.

• Body language matters. Try to sit up straight, make eye contact and stay "open". Closing yourself off by crossing your arms feels less confident and engaging.

• Take the company culture into account. If it seems like a relaxed kind of workplace, it's likely that they will value a more relaxed kind of personality. If the workplace seems corporate and formal, a more professional demeanour might be better.

• Humour is great. At the end of the day, we all spend a large chunk of our lives at work, so having colleagues that you can laugh with is appreciated at almost any company.

There you have it! Go forth and be likeable. Or better yet - be yourself. There's nothing more likeable than authenticity!