These four words can change a mood, a conversation, a state of mind. Brightening your day in an instant. And this sentiment is what Arel Moodie has been touting (well, how he’s been closing his podcast) for nearly a decade.

Moodie is a professional speaker, entrepreneur, author and host of iTunes’ Art of Likability podcast. A weekly episodic series nearly 200 episodes strong. Founded in 2014, Arel incorporates his unique charm to share simple, concrete ways to develop all the relationships in your life. Both personal and professional!

As avid fans of the podcast ourselves, here are our favorite lessons we learned from the show!

How People Judge You (Episode 55)

Despite what we may portray on Instagram, we all have things we’d rather not divulge with everyone. Whether on social, or even within your circle of friends, Moodie calls us to reflect on how we communicate.

The Billboard Test: Imagine if your content, image or message was plastered on every major highway for the world to see. Is this something that would make your family proud?

He also suggests a simpler method. The Google Your Name Test. Search your name and sift through your top ten results. Make sure your search results are good. To ensure your name or brand appears first, write relevant articles for your specific industry or field.

He even recommends having a trusted friend or family member review your social media profiles. A social media test if you will, viewing the images as a stranger trying to piece yourself together. What story are you telling people?

Interactions (Episode 8)

With every interaction you make, personally or professionally, make sure you make the person you encounter feel special. Strive to make their day better, even in the simplest of ways.

“Everywhere you go, you’re being watched.” While this may seem Orwellian in nature, Moodie calls us to be mindful of the emotions we convey. He resolves this by suggesting smiling every time we leave a room or situation.

When making small talk, ask the person “What’s something cool that happened to you in the last month? If they claim to not have anything of note. Tell them “Next time we see each other, you better have something, because you deserve it!”

Complimenting (Episode 11)

Don’t just drop shallow remarks and empty phrases. Seek to discover more by following up your compliments with a question. If you’re impressed with the way they dress, ask questions like “What’s the story behind the outfit? Do you plan out your attire? Can you give me any tips?”

One of his greatest anecdotes we take with us when engaging with clients is “In order to be an interesting person you must be interested in people.” Nothing ever said has been truer!

Receiving Feedback (Episode 12)

Moodie ensures his listeners that all feedback, good and bad, is an opportunity to grow. Refrain from defending and making excuses as an initial reaction. Instead, respond by having an “a-ha” moment, actively listening to what they have to say.

Thank them for caring enough to bring their advice to your attention. You don’t need to validate that they are right or you’re wrong. Just listen and take responsibility for yourself.

And don’t forget to follow up after the fact. Let that person know how that feedback helped you. Ultimately, humility gets you far here, as Moodie exclaims “You don’t prove anything with ego, you prove with results!”

Game-Changing Relationship Advice (Episode 57)

This episode is heavy one, here are some key takeaways!

• Coasting is inevitable in all relationships. Relationships don’t complete us. You are whole as you are!
• Learn how to like yourself, and believe you are good enough. Emotional leaning, constant needs for approval, can be a huge destroyer of relationship
• You’re a square, be with someone makes you a cube. Be with someone who provides a deeper dimension in your life
• Claim your values or non-negotiables. Don’t expect someone to be a mind reader — tell them your values directly (spontaneous dates, washing dishes, etc.) This only cultivates lose-lose situations. What makes you feel loved
• What you may think is common sense may not be the same for others.

The mission of The Art of Likability is simple: “Increased likability improves your leadership and builds deeper relationships to create more success in all areas of your life.”

What are some traits you like in your favorite people? Do people actually like the formulaic? Let’s discuss!