Want to be more likeable? Make more facial expressions

Facial expressions may be more important than we think, not just for conveying emotions but also for making us more likeable. A new study suggests that increased use of facial expressions, ranging from smiles to eyebrow raises, can significantly impact how others perceive us. Researchers found that people who are more expressive are generally more well-liked and viewed as agreeable.

This research delves into the role of facial expressivity as a social tool. It explores how we use facial expressions to achieve various interpersonal goals, such as building rapport or conveying trustworthiness. The study involved analyzing video calls between strangers, focusing on the frequency and intensity of facial expressions.