As a presenter, one of the most powerful words people can use about you is this: likeable. Especially when doing any kind of persuasive presentation, your likeability is the single biggest factor in determining your success. The old saw is true: people do business with people they like. This applies whether you’re trying to get dollars added to your budget or want to become someone's vendor of choice.

Focus on your likeability and you can learn to dial it up and down like the volume control on your computer.

The simplest way to boost your likeability is by smiling. Most business people resist this simple technique. They are concerned it will diminish their credibility. Nothing could be farther from the truth. Appearing to enjoy what you do is such a refreshing change from the business norm that it automatically sets you apart and makes you, yes, likeable.

Smiling does not mean you can't be serious. No one is advocating that you smile while announcing that the budget has just been slashed by forty percent with massive layoffs to follow. But you'd be amazed at how many more opportunities there are to deliver your message with a smile than you think there are.

Adopt the attitude that you really like doing what you're doing. As a presenter that means liking the opportunity to present your ideas to other professionals. Also see, Nervousness and Your Point of View

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