The 11 Laws of Likability

Relationship Networking . . . Because People Do Business with People They Like

by Michelle Tillis Lederman

4.4(186 ratings)

10 min read

Brief overview

This book explores how being genuinely likable can transform your professional and personal relationships. It demonstrates that substantive connections develop when you pair self-awareness with authenticity, genuine curiosity, and a willingness to help. By reading it, you'll discover practical strategies for creating trust, building rapport, and ensuring people remember you for the right reasons.

A Warm Welcome

Have you ever left a conversation feeling energized, like you truly connected? Those are the moments we all crave—and they’re at the heart of this book’s approach. When relationships feel natural, it’s usually because there’s true likability at play.

Rather than seeing encounters as a series of transactions, you’ll be encouraged to view them as opportunities for connection. The benefits extend far beyond business: When people enjoy talking with you, they want to help you, stay in touch, and support your growth.

Throughout these pages, you’ll find a gentle road map for building meaningful relationships. Whether you’re a quiet soul or talkative by nature, you can put each idea to practical use.

Likability doesn’t depend on pretending; it thrives on genuine warmth and curiosity.

Embracing Realness

Authenticity might sound simple—just be yourself. But in practice, it takes courage. When you’re not sure how someone will react, there’s a temptation to mask your true feelings or put on an act. Yet being genuine fosters comfort and trust.

Instead of forcing yourself to ‘play the part’ of a businessperson or a friend, try to lean into your natural energy and personality. If you’re anxious about an event, it’s okay to leave early. If you prefer small groups, create mini-gatherings of two or three instead of forcing yourself to work a large room.

Authenticity also helps you align your personal values with professional demands. When you feel at ease, this sense of comfort radiates outward, and you’ll naturally attract others who resonate with how you present yourself.

You don’t have to be perfect—just be true.

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What is The 11 Laws of Likability about?

"The 11 Laws of Likability: Relationship Networking... Because People Do Business with People They Like" by Michelle Tillis Lederman is a comprehensive exploration of how authenticity and genuine connection can unlock myriad opportunities in both personal and professional settings. With an approachable and strategy-rich framework, the book delves into the nuances of rapport building, emphasizing that true success comes from fostering respect, trust, and meaningful relationships.

From self-awareness and positive self-perception to mastering first impressions and active listening, the book provides tangible techniques for creating lasting impressions. The self-assessment exercises and real-world scenarios presented encourage readers to hone their emotional intelligence, thereby enhancing their personal likability quotient. Whether it's finding common ground or practicing generous giving, the book underscores the powerful impact of likability as a core driver for relationship networking.

In a world where connections determine career trajectories and life satisfaction, this book acts as a guide to building an authentic brand built on warmth, curiosity, and generosity. Its lessons resonate deeply, equipping readers with the confidence and skills to approach networking with authenticity, resulting in more effective and fulfilling relationships.

Review of The 11 Laws of Likability

Michelle Tillis Lederman's "The 11 Laws of Likability" offers a refreshing take on networking that is grounded in authenticity and warmth. One of the book's standout features is its focus on real, practical strategies that can be implemented immediately. It moves beyond theoretical jargon to provide actionable steps that cater to various personality types, ensuring everyone can find an approach that suits them.

The key strength of this book lies in its accessibility. Readers will appreciate Lederman's straightforward writing style, which combines insights from psychological research with anecdotes and case studies to illustrate its points. This blend of theory and practice makes the content relatable and easy to digest. The book's organization into distinct "laws" provides structure, allowing readers to absorb information at their own pace.

"The 11 Laws of Likability" is an invaluable resource for both seasoned professionals and newcomers to networking. It serves as an informative guide for anyone interested in enhancing their connection skills—be it in business or everyday life. Lederman's emphasis on cultivating genuine relationships rather than superficial interactions shifts the narrative towards more meaningful engagements. It's a book highly recommended for anyone seeking to improve their social dynamics and foster authentic connections.

Who should read The 11 Laws of Likability?

Corporate Professionals who desire stronger networking skills to enhance career growth and workplace relationships.
Entrepreneurs looking to build a robust and supportive professional network that can provide mentorship and business opportunities.
Recent Graduates entering the workforce who need guidance on establishing a professional presence and forging relevant connections.
Introverts who find traditional networking strategies daunting and are seeking relatable, actionable techniques to connect genuinely.
Social Media Influencers looking to deepen their influence by prioritizing authentic engagement over numbers.

About the author

Michelle Tillis Lederman is a renowned people expert, speaker, trainer, coach, and author. She is the founder and CEO of Executive Essentials, a training company that provides customized communications and leadership programs. With over a decade of experience in finance and a background that includes a BS from Lehigh University and an MBA from Columbia Business School, she has worked with numerous Fortune 500 companies, universities, and non-profit organizations. She is also a certified professional coach (PCC) and has been named by Forbes as one of the Top 25 Networking Experts.