Whether you’re meeting someone new, trying to build a better relationship, or smoothing things over after a rough first impression, getting on someone’s good side is usually pretty easy.
People appreciate genuine kindness, respect, and a little effort. As a result, it’s often the smallest things that make the biggest difference. If you want to connect with someone in a natural and effortless way, here are some easy ways to get on their good side. The best part of this is that you don’t have to do anything special or pretend to be something you’re not — you just need to know how to read the room and handle people.
1. Show genuine interest in what they have to say.
People love feeling heard. If you take the time to listen properly — without interrupting, zoning out, or waiting for your turn to speak — it makes a huge difference in how someone feels around you. Ask thoughtful questions, remember little details they mention, and show that you actually care about their opinions. Even just saying, “That’s really interesting, tell me more,” can go a long way in making someone warm up to you.
2. Use their name in conversation.
It might seem like a small thing, but people respond well to hearing their own name. It makes interactions feel more personal and shows that you’re paying attention. Just be natural about it — there’s no need to overdo it. A simple, “That’s a great point, Sarah,” or “Good to see you again, Tom,” adds a personal touch without feeling forced.
3. Match their energy.
If someone is upbeat and talkative, a cold or overly serious response might make things awkward. Likewise, if they’re quiet and reserved, coming in too loud or intense can feel overwhelming. Adjusting your tone and body language to match theirs helps create an instant sense of comfort. It doesn’t mean changing who you are—it’s just about making the interaction feel natural and easygoing.
4. Give sincere compliments.
A well-timed compliment can break the ice and instantly make someone feel good around you. But the key is sincerity — people can tell when you’re just saying something to get on their good side. Instead of a generic “You look nice,” go for something more specific, like “That colour really suits you,” or “You have a great way of explaining things.” When a compliment feels genuine, it leaves a lasting impression.
5. Be reliable.
Source: Unsplash People like those they can trust. If you say you’re going to do something, follow through. Whether it’s meeting up on time, remembering something important to them, or just keeping a promise, consistency builds a sense of trust. Even small things like replying when you said you would or showing up when you said you’d help make people feel like they can depend on you, and that naturally puts you in their good books.
6. Laugh at their jokes (when they’re actually funny).
Everyone likes feeling appreciated, and nothing makes someone feel more at ease than knowing their humour is landing. If they crack a joke and it genuinely makes you laugh, don’t hold back. Of course, don’t fake it if something isn’t funny — that just comes off as awkward. But letting someone know you enjoy their humour helps build a connection quickly.
7. Avoid one-upping them in conversation.
Source: Unsplash We’ve all met people who always have a better story, a bigger achievement, or a more dramatic experience to share. It’s exhausting. If someone tells you about their weekend trip, don’t jump in with a story about your month-long adventure. Instead of competing, show interest in what they’re saying. Let them have their moment — there’s plenty of time to share your own stories later.
8. Find common ground.
People naturally warm up to those they feel they have something in common with. Whether it’s music, TV shows, a love for dogs, or even a shared dislike of bad weather, finding that small connection makes conversations easier. If you notice a shared interest, lean into it. “Oh, you love that band too? They’re amazing live!” — simple statements like that help create an instant sense of familiarity.
9. Be mindful of body language.
Sometimes, it’s not what you say, but how you say it. Open, relaxed body language makes you seem more approachable, while crossing your arms, avoiding eye contact, or fidgeting too much can make interactions feel stiff. Making eye contact, smiling naturally, and facing the person you’re speaking with shows that you’re engaged, making them more likely to feel at ease with you.
10. Show appreciation for the little things.
Gratitude goes a long way. If someone does something kind for you, even something small like holding a door open or offering a bit of advice, acknowledge it with a simple “I really appreciate that” or “That was really kind of you.” People remember those who make them feel valued, and a little bit of appreciation can strengthen relationships in ways you might not expect.
11. Stay positive (but not in a fake way).
No one likes being around constant negativity. While everyone has bad days, if you’re always complaining or pointing out the downside of things, people might not want to spend too much time around you. This doesn’t mean you have to be over-the-top cheerful all the time — just try to keep things balanced. A good mix of humour, optimism, and realness makes you someone people naturally gravitate towards.
12. Be supportive without expecting anything in return.
Whether it’s hyping someone up before a big presentation or just being there when they need to vent, being a supportive presence in someone’s life naturally strengthens your bond. People can sense when kindness is genuine versus when it’s done just to gain favour. Being supportive simply because you care, without expecting anything in return, makes you someone people trust and appreciate.
13. Know when to give space.
Sometimes, the best way to get on someone’s good side is to know when to step back. Not everyone wants constant conversation or attention, and recognising when someone needs a little breathing room shows emotional intelligence. If someone seems tired, overwhelmed, or just not in the mood to talk, giving them space rather than pushing for interaction will make them appreciate you more in the long run.
14. Keep things light and easy-going.
People like being around those who make life feel less complicated. If you’re easy to talk to, can laugh things off, and don’t take yourself too seriously, you naturally become someone people enjoy spending time with. That doesn’t mean you can’t have deep conversations or serious moments — it just means that keeping things light when appropriate helps build a relaxed and positive connection with other people.
