When politicians and celebrities are perceived as being from the shallow end of the gene pool one of their favourite ploys is start wearing dark frame glasses. Add a book and poof...you appear to be a bit smarter. Yeah you could do that to, however I wanted to go a little past the obvious. So here are some other things you could do...
1. Simplify your language.
Both your written and verbal communications should be simple, concise and clear. Some people think that by using grandiose words or business jargon they will appear to be smart. Too bad for them because it creates the totally wrong impression. We don't trust, like or believe people that do that.
2. Ask lots of questions.
No one likes know-it-all's. Those who ask a lot of questions are perceived as being intelligent. And even better when someone says something meaningful to you pause and write it down. Seeing someone write something down that you said makes you think highly of them.
3. Undivided attention.
Good eye contact shows that you are engaged. It also displays confidence. Bonus points if you talk less than they do.
4. Be expressive.
Persuasive communication says you should use body as well as your mouth. Using gestures commands attention. Kids are naturally expressive. Too bad we tend to lose that as we grow older. Next time you are watching a great speaker notice how expressive he or she is.
5. Appearances matter a lot.
6. Master the pause.
When it is your turn to talk pause for 2 or 3 seconds. This makes people think you are contemplating your response instead of blurting out the first thing that pops in your head. And combined with the steeple and you look like a genius....
7. Steeple.
This is a classic gesture for making people think you are smart. Smart people do it and so do politicians who want to look smart. It is really powerful.
8. Don't swear, smoke or drink too much.
Sure we all swear on occasion but make it a rare exception especially when you are trying to appear smart. Smokers go outside (of course if you are with another smoker than forget this one).
9. Be funny and laugh a lot.
The best kind of funny is the witty and the self deprecating type of humor. Mocking others is incredibly negative. Making fun of yourself (as long as you don't over-do it) shows confidence. Being witty is the highest form of humor making you appear smart.
10. Smile like you know something others don't.
HELP.....if you have any other ideas to appear smart, I would love it if you share it with us all in the comments. I need all the help I can get!
