Feeling a little awkward about making eye contact right away? Try looking at someone’s forehead instead. It’s not quite the same, but it will get you into the habit without jumping in head first.

Plus, smiling makes you look more approachable, too. When’s the last time you approached a stranger who looked mad or angry? Smiling makes it much more likely that people will strike up conversations with you in the street.

Even if you don’t feel like the most confident person in the room, fake it until you make it!

Open body language also makes you appear more confident, which will draw people toward you.

You can also ask follow up questions to show that you’re listening. Try saying things like, “Interesting, can you tell me more?”

Trouble remembering someone’s name? Remember it by repeating it out loud and then writing it down. [8] X Research source

“You have the best sense of humor! You always know how to make me laugh. ” “Your sense of style is off the charts. I look forward to seeing your outfits every day. ” “What a ray of sunshine you are! You really light up a room. ”

Try asking open-ended questions to find out what the other person likes, such as, “What did you get up to last week?” or, “What’s the last movie you saw in theaters?”

Plus, being positive is actually better for your mental health, too.

Plus, stepping outside of your comfort zone will make you a happier person overall!

Try to be as much of an open book as possible. If you’re honest about your thoughts and feelings, people will enjoy talking to you much more.

“I woke up in time to see the sunrise today. ” “The coffee I bought from the cafe down the street tasted amazing. ” “I got to talk to my mom on the phone today. ”