How to Be More Approachable: 3 Tips to Be More Approachable
Written by MasterClass
Last updated: May 20, 2022 • 2 min read
Being approachable means others are willing to start a conversation with you or ask you questions. An approachable person will be better at building relationships and meeting new people, whereas an unapproachable person might feel isolated. Discover how to be more approachable in the workplace.
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What Does It Mean to Be Approachable?
Being approachable means others feel comfortable starting a conversation with you or asking you questions. Approachable people have strong communication skills and demonstrate open body language.
The Benefits of Being Approachable at Work
Being approachable can help to improve your social interactions, creating more opportunities for you to make new friends in the workplace. Your coworkers will be more likely to come to you with their questions and concerns. As you develop your social skills and become more self-aware, you may find that new people will start conversations with you, and you may be more willing to approach others.
How to Be More Approachable: 3 Tips
Here are some tips to help you learn how to look approachable in social situations in the workplace:
- 1. Be positive and friendly: If you develop a reputation for being a kind and considerate person, your team members will be more willing to approach you with their questions and concerns. Show interest in what they’re doing and use an encouraging tone of voice.
- 2. Show you are available: It can be tempting to look at your phone or appear busy to avoid interactions when you are in a social situation. Instead, keep your head up and be ready to start a conversation at any time.
- 3. Use friendly and open body language: Your nonverbal body language can say a lot about how willing you are to talk to others. Avoid looking stern by frowning or folding your arms; instead, smile and keep an open posture. Make eye contact with others and use positive facial expressions. Try to avoid nervous habits like fidgeting, which could make you appear nervous to talk to others.
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