Have you ever had a nagging feeling that someone just doesn’t like you?
It’s not always easy to tell, especially when they’re trying to be polite. But actions speak louder than words, and there are subtle signs that can give the game away. Here’s a look at some telltale behaviours that might indicate someone’s not your biggest fan.
1. They constantly check their phone when you’re talking.
Ever feel like you’re competing with a smartphone for someone’s attention? If a person is always glancing at their phone or scrolling through social media while you’re trying to have a conversation, it’s a pretty clear sign they’re not interested in what you have to say. It’s rude, and it shows they’d rather be doing anything else than chatting with you.
2. Their body language is closed off.
Pay attention to how someone positions themselves when they’re around you. If they’re constantly crossing their arms, turning their body away from you, or putting objects between you (like a bag or a coffee cup), they’re subconsciously creating a barrier. Their closed-off body language suggests they’re uncomfortable and want to keep their distance.
3. They avoid eye contact with you.
Source: Unsplash Eye contact is a key part of communication and connection. If someone consistently looks away, stares at the ground, or seems to be looking everywhere but at you when you’re speaking, it could be a sign they’re not comfortable around you. Of course, some people are just shy, but if it’s a noticeable pattern, it might mean they’re trying to avoid engaging with you.
4. They never initiate conversations or plans.
Think about it — hen was the last time this person reached out to you first? If you’re always the one starting conversations or suggesting meet-ups, and they never reciprocate, it’s a pretty clear sign they’re not keen on spending time with you. People make an effort for those they like, so a lack of initiative speaks volumes.
5. Their smiles never reach their eyes.
A genuine smile involves the whole face, especially the eyes. If someone’s smiles seem forced or don’t quite reach their eyes when they’re interacting with you, it could be a sign that they’re just being polite rather than genuinely happy to see you. Look for those crinkles around the eyes — they’re hard to fake!
6. They find excuses to cut conversations short.
We all have busy lives, but if someone always seems to be in a rush to end conversations with you, it might be more than just a packed schedule. Watch out for sudden remembrances of urgent tasks or constant glances at the time. If they’re always looking for an exit strategy when talking to you, they probably don’t enjoy your company much.
7. They maintain a larger personal space with you.
Source: Unsplash Personal space varies from culture to culture, but if you notice someone consistently keeping more distance from you than they do with other people, it could be a sign they’re uncomfortable. They might take a step back if you move closer, or always choose to sit far away from you in group settings. Physical distancing often reflects an emotional distance, too.
8. They never remember details about you.
Source: Unsplash When we like someone, we tend to remember things they tell us about themselves. If you find yourself constantly repeating basic information about your life, job, or interests to someone, it might be because they’re not paying attention. Their lack of retention could indicate a lack of interest in getting to know you better.
9. Their tone of voice changes when speaking to you.
Listen carefully to how someone’s voice changes when they talk to you compared to other people. If their tone becomes noticeably cooler, more formal, or less enthusiastic, it could be a sign they’re not thrilled to be interacting with you. We often unconsciously adjust our tone based on how we feel about the person we’re speaking to.
10. They avoid physical contact.
Source: Unsplash In cultures where touch is common in social interactions, a lack of it can be telling. If someone always dodges your attempts at friendly touches (like handshakes or pats on the back) or never initiates any physical contact themselves, it might mean they’re trying to maintain a clear boundary with you.
11. They don’t mirror your body language.
Source: Unsplash Mirroring is a subconscious behaviour we often do when we’re comfortable with someone. If you notice that a person never seems to match your posture or gestures — for example, they remain stiff when you lean in or don’t smile back when you do — it could indicate a lack of rapport or connection.
12. They give you one-word answers.
Source: Unsplash Communication is a two-way street, but if someone consistently responds to you with short, curt answers, they’re effectively putting up a “do not disturb” sign. Their behaviour shows they’re not interested in engaging in a real conversation with you and would rather the interaction end as quickly as possible.
13. They never ask for your opinion or advice.
When we value someone, we tend to care about what they think. If a person never asks for your input on decisions or your thoughts on a situation, it might mean they don’t particularly value your opinion. Their complete lack of interest in your perspective can be a subtle way of showing they don’t hold you in high regard.
14. They don’t include you in group conversations.
Source: Unsplash In social settings, watch how the person behaves when you’re part of a group. Do they make an effort to include you in the conversation, or do they seem to speak to everyone but you? If you often feel left out or ignored in these situations, it could be a sign that they’re deliberately excluding you.
15. They’re overly polite or formal with you.
Sometimes, excessive politeness can actually be a bad sign. If someone is always very formal or cordial with you, especially in contrast to how they interact with people, it might mean they’re keeping you at arm’s length. They’re creating a social barrier, preventing any real warmth or closeness from developing.
