What Is an “attractiveness Quotient” (and How to Increase It)?
You’ve heard of the intelligence quotient, or IQ, and you probably know that it’s not the most reliable way to determine how smart you are . But did you know that there is also an “attractiveness quotient” and you can take steps to influence your own factor and thus make yourself more attractive?
What is the Like Coefficient?
Dr. Hendry Weisinger, an emotional intelligence expert, wrote about this in 2015 , explaining that liking is “a key indicator of success in all areas of life.” Simply put, no matter how pretty you are, it will directly affect how successful you are in your friendships, romantic endeavors, professional life, and family relationships.
The quotient here refers to measuring your attractiveness, which you can usually judge by how people treat and interact with you. Weisinger used party invitations or promotions as an indicator of your attractiveness and related success, but think about how you interact with everyone around you. If your siblings regularly call you to tell you about their day, your friends trust you with secrets or invite you to important events, or you’re in a serious romantic relationship, you can be sure that your attraction quotient is high.
How to increase the attractiveness factor?
Weisinger’s letter suggests focusing on your sense of humor and your listening skills, and while both of these factors will make you attractive to others, there are other things to consider. This week, Dr. Jack Shafter, a former FBI behavioral analyst, expanded on Weisinger’s suggestions in a paper for Psychology Today by advising you to take a look at these so-called “laws” of attraction:
- The law of similarity . People with similar ideas, views, and interests tend to bond. If you want to be liked, think about the groups you want to reach out to and whether the people in them share your interests. It will be easier for you to please those with whom you have common interests.
- The law of false attribution. Here Shafter notes that when people are having fun, they tend to associate their positive emotions with those around them at the time. Surround yourself with people who are having fun or pumping up endorphins—whether it’s at the gym or happy hour at the office—and you’ll be associated with good times, boosting your attractiveness.
- The Law of Curiosity. “When you behave in a way that arouses the curiosity of another person, it greatly increases the chances that people will want to interact with you to satisfy their curiosity,” Shafter writes. Tell us about your unique experiences, such as if you grew up in a different environment from where you live, or if you studied something unusual in college. Give people something interesting.
- The law of self-disclosure. Be vulnerable but not performative when interacting with others. This can help you develop close bonds, as people naturally tend to open up and connect with sincere people. They are likely to be vulnerable in return and now you have real connections.
- Law of humor. It’s obvious, but when you’re funny, people like you. Don’t be afraid to show your stupid side.
- The law of availability or scarcity. Don’t make yourself too accessible to people, at least not right away. This is related to what we were curious about: you have to make people want more when you interact with them so that they have a reason to look for you. Do not despair; make it clear that you are in demand.
Essentially, be open, be funny, don’t be fake or desperate if you want to increase your LQ. Then get ready to let success flow.