Why Likeability is a Leadership Superpower — and How to Strengthen It

In today’s fast-paced and competitive workplace, expertise and competence are essential—but they alone won’t guarantee your success. Often, what determines whether you advance or stay stuck isn’t technical skill—it’s likeability.

Whether you’re climbing the corporate ladder, building a business, or leading a team, being likable is a secret weapon that can open doors, create opportunities, and help you form stronger, more meaningful relationships. It’s not just a “nice-to-have” trait—it’s a core leadership quality and one that we work on in Leadership Leander.

Leadership Leander Reunion Lunch – Join Us

That’s why ongoing leadership development matters—and why we’re excited to invite you to our upcoming Leadership Leander Reunion Lunch on Monday, June 24 at 11:30 AM at FRI.

This lunch is more than just a reunion—it’s a chance to reconnect with your classmates, grow your network, and continue your leadership journey in a supportive, engaging environment. Everyone is invited to attend and work to connect and develop their networks!

Learn more!

Why Likeability Matters for Leaders

Likeability is often overlooked, but it plays a major role in leadership success. When influential stakeholders or executive teams are discussing potential promotions or high-profile projects,

 technical qualifications usually aren’t the only factor in the conversation. It’s the lasting impression—how people feel when they work with you—that sticks.

A study published by the Harvard Business Review found that likeable people receive better performance reviews, are more likely to be hired and promoted, and are often

seen as more competent—even when their technical skills are average. That’s right—being likable can actually make you appear more capable.

On the flip side, being combative, dismissive, or just difficult to work with can derail even the most talented professionals. People may avoid engaging with you altogether, which can cause your career growth to stall.

Likeability in Action: How to Strengthen Yours

Want to boost your likeability and leadership presence? Here are seven simple strategies that can help you build stronger connections and increase your influence in any workplace:

1. Be Warm and Approachable

  • Smile genuinely, use people’s names, and keep your tone friendly.

  • Approach conversations with openness rather than urgency.

    • Tip: Start meetings with a personal check-in. “How was your weekend?” goes a long way.

2. Find Common Ground

  • Discover shared interests or experiences.

  • Participate in group events (like the Leadership Leander) to connect with others beyond just work tasks.

    • Tip: Ask about hobbies or recent local events—these small touchpoints build big bridges.

3. Be Reliable and Helpful

  • Do what you say you’ll do. Consistency builds trust.

  • Offer help when you can—it shows you’re a team player.

    • Tip: A simple “Need a hand with that?” makes you approachable and trustworthy.

4. Listen More Than You Talk

  • Give others space to share their thoughts, and show you’re listening.

  • Nod, paraphrase, and ask follow-up questions.

    • Tip: “Tell me more about that,” is an easy way to encourage deeper dialogue.

5. Be Positive and Solution-Oriented

  • Stay calm under pressure and look for ways to move forward.

    • Tip: Shift from “That won’t work” to “What if we tried…”

6. Give Credit and Share Praise

  • Acknowledge others’ efforts in public and private.

    • Tip: “This wouldn’t have happened without [Name]’s help.” Sharing credit makes you a leader others want to follow.

7. Be Authentic

  • Show up as your real self, even when things aren’t perfect.

    • Tip: “I’m excited but nervous about this project” invites relatability and trust.

I’ve seen firsthand in leadership coaching that likeability is often the difference-maker. One technically brilliant executive wasn’t connecting with their team—and promotions weren’t coming. Once they focused on being more approachable and collaborative, everything changed. Within six months, they were leading a new division, simply because their relationships improved.

Final Thought

People may forget what you said or did, but they’ll always remember how you made them feel. In leadership, likeability isn’t fluff—it’s strategy. And the more we invest in learning, connecting, and growing together, the stronger our leadership impact becomes.

So join us June 24 to keep that momentum going—and let us know how we can help you lead even better today and beyond.