Are You as Likable as You Are Credible?

I wrote a version of this blog a couple years back and with the election heating up, I thought there would be no more of an appropriate time to remind people about the first Presidential debate of 1960 between John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon.

Why do I bring it up? Because that was the first presidential debate ever televised. For those who were alive back then, they can recall how greatly political opinions were swayed by how they consumed that debate. Those that listened on radio thought the clear winner was Nixon. Those that watched on television thought the charismatic, handsome guy with good posture in Kennedy clearly won.

So, what’s my point?

Of course, every president needs credibility. But it seems that no one will listen to him – he won’t even get the job – if he’s not likable in the first place.

At work, we try to be thoughtful, and fair, and respectful with our colleagues. But do we do enough to be liked by them, as well?

What about in our personal relationships?

If we made an effort to be more likable, would people be more receptive to us, as they are to the presidential candidates?

Is likability as important as credibility? I don’t have the answer. I’m asking.

When we eat our Wheaties in the morning, we may all want to sprinkle some likability powder in there, just to be safe.

When Richard Nixon beat George McGovern in 1972 that was the last time the more likable candidate didn’t win the presidency.

That can’t be a coincidence.