How to get people to like you

As I am typing this, I am at one of the student newspapers I write at where they are holding elections. I am watching the speeches and making mental notes of how people are making their speeches. The election and question process is pretty intense. Its a room of around 30 people all watching you while you are making a speech and then a question and answer period where questions are fired at you. Pretty nerve-racking if you ask me; some people were shaking when they made a speech.

Here is a list of things to do if you're making a speech to get an elected position:

1. Be friendly but professional in your speech. I noticed that people voted for candidates who seemed friendlier and more open. Obviously people will want to work with someone who is nice.

2. Know the position you are running for well. Some of the candidates didn't know answers to their specific field. Ex. person running for a sports editor position didn't know anything about the physical education department at school. This just looks really bad on you. So make sure you know your stuff! If you really don't know the answer to a question, use the elephant and ant technique. At least it gives you something to say.

3. Do not be sarcastic. It's all about attitude, really. There was this girl who gave a really fake smile. People like genuine.

4. Try to fit in, but stand out. It sounds like a paradox, but what I really mean is this: identify with your voters but stand out from the rest of the candidates. You need to make people remember you in a good way- don't be remembered for a bad attitude or cold air.

5. Do not be intimidated by other candidates' experience. People like candidates with experience, but passion speaks more. Obviously you need to be qualified for the job first though.

6. Have interesting ideas. It shows initiative and passion as well as creativity. It sets you apart from the crowd.

7. Use examples to make points. Vague statements are useless. Anyone can say "I have leadership skills." But to go further and say "I have leadership experience, I led this team on this year and so on" gives concrete evidence that you aren't just making stuff up. And it makes you look good too.

8. Body Language! There was this girl that crossed her arms whenever she went up to speak. Big no-no! You need to look approachable and friendly not stern and cross because then people will like you better and be more likely to vote for you.

9. Have a good time. Even if people don't vote for you, for every thing you do, you learn from it. Making a speech and answering questions gives you the experience for you to do better next time. So have fun!