This colloquial phrase is widely used, perhaps not always in the most flattering way. You charm someone’s socks off in getting them to do things your way, or you are in need of a favor. If you successfully charmed someone in a date or hanging out with someone over time, congratulations for a job well done.
That brings to the obvious question which has been bugging me for some time. What is charming? I’m told it clearly isn’t just about outlook and appearances, but having a magnetic and chiseled face does not hurt (as always). It’s the personality, the aura, the demeanor, and most importantly, the substance. Yes, these are all very open and vague descriptions, but as I’m told, that is exactly why a charming person is so not easy to find.
I’m sure there is no one definition, as charming means different things to different people. I have come across an article online which lists out the 11 ways to be charming. Obviously, I’m sure there are hundreds more ideas or criteria in your own minds, but it never hurts to get inspired by the list, before making your own conclusion.
How To Be Charming
- Be genuinely interested in people.
- Remember people’s names when you meet them for the first time.
- Assume rapport
- Smile with your eyes
- Take into account topics that interest those around you, even if you’re not so keen on them
- Control your tone of voice
- Watch the way you phrase things
- Issue compliments generously; this especially raises others’ self esteem
- Be gracious in accepting compliments
- Praise others instead of gossiping
- Sometimes being charming is about simply being a good listener
For the full narrative including additional tips, check out this link.
One word of advice however, when you decide to charm someone else’s socks off, be prepared of the consequences (provided you have done a good job of it). That could be the subject of another blog post in the making.
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