If you naturally use these 8 words, you're the kind of person others love to be around

Some people just have a way about them, don’t they? The kind of presence that makes you want to linger a little longer in conversation, or walk away feeling lighter than when you arrived.

It’s easy to assume they were simply born with that charm, but often, it comes down to something much simpler: the words they use.

Words can shift energy, build trust, and create closeness almost instantly.

In this article, I’ll share eight small but powerful words that, when used authentically, tend to make people magnetic.

You might be surprised at how much weight these everyday expressions carry.

1. Please

Think about the last time someone asked you for something. Did they say “please”?

It’s such a small word, but it changes everything. Without it, a request can feel like a demand. With it, the same request feels respectful and considerate.

People naturally gravitate toward those who make them feel valued, and “please” does exactly that.

I’ve noticed that when I use “please” intentionally—even in casual moments like asking a friend to pass the salt or a coworker to share a file—the response is warmer. It softens the exchange and builds goodwill.

Psychologists have long noted that politeness plays a big role in building social bonds. As noted by sociolinguist Robin Lakoff, “politeness is developed by societies in order to reduce friction in personal interaction.”

Something as simple as “please” helps us avoid unnecessary tension and shows that we don’t take others for granted.

When “please” becomes second nature, you’re not just being polite—you’re creating an environment where people feel respected. And respect is one of the fastest ways to make people want to be around you.

2. Thank you

Gratitude never goes out of style. Saying “thank you” isn’t just about good manners—it’s about acknowledging another person’s effort, no matter how small.

Think about how it feels when someone genuinely thanks you for something you did. It gives you a sense of recognition and makes you feel appreciated. Now imagine spreading that same feeling to others just by using two simple words.

I’ve found that when I consciously express gratitude, whether it’s thanking a cashier, a friend, or a colleague, the atmosphere shifts. People’s shoulders relax, smiles come easier, and the interaction feels more human.

The key is sincerity. A robotic “thanks” doesn’t carry the same weight as looking someone in the eye and really meaning it.

People love being around those who make them feel seen—and “thank you” is one of the most powerful ways to do that.

3. Sorry

Apologies can be tricky. Some people overuse “sorry” to the point where it loses meaning, but when used appropriately, this word can be incredibly powerful.

Think about it: mistakes are part of being human. What matters most is how we handle them. A genuine “sorry” shows humility, accountability, and respect for the person we may have hurt or inconvenienced.

I remember once bumping into a neighbor’s flowerpots while carrying groceries. Instead of brushing it off, I apologized and offered to help tidy them. That small “sorry” turned an awkward moment into a warm conversation—and it actually strengthened our connection.

The truth is, people don’t expect perfection. They expect honesty. A thoughtful “sorry” communicates that you value the relationship more than your pride. And that’s the kind of energy people want to be around.

4. Congratulations

There’s something special about people who genuinely celebrate the wins of others. Saying “congratulations” isn’t just about acknowledging an achievement—it’s about sharing in someone else’s joy.

Too often, people get caught up in comparison or even envy. But when you take the time to say “congratulations,” you’re sending a clear message: I see your success, and I’m happy for you.

I’ve noticed this in my own friendships. The people who cheer for me, even when it has nothing to do with them, are the ones I naturally want to spend more time with. Their encouragement feels uplifting rather than competitive.

And here’s the beautiful part: celebration is contagious. When you celebrate others, you create an atmosphere where they feel safe to celebrate you too.

That mutual support builds deeper bonds—and makes you the kind of person people love to have in their corner.

5. Welcome

Few words carry as much warmth as “welcome.” Whether it’s greeting someone new at work, opening your home to a guest, or simply saying, “You’re welcome” after being thanked, this word has a way of making people feel they belong.

I once volunteered at a local farmers’ market, and I noticed how new vendors sometimes looked nervous setting up their stalls. A simple “Welcome, glad you’re here” often changed their whole demeanor. You could almost see the tension leave their shoulders.

The truth is, belonging is a universal need. When people feel welcomed, they let their guard down. They feel accepted.

And when you’re the one who creates that feeling, you naturally become someone others want to be around.

6. Yes

There’s a certain energy that comes with “yes.” It signals openness, positivity, and possibility. People who naturally say “yes” (when it makes sense) tend to be the ones others gravitate toward because they bring an inviting, can-do spirit to conversations.

Of course, I don’t mean being a pushover or saying “yes” to things that drain you. But when you say “yes” to opportunities, ideas, or even small invitations, you show that you’re approachable and willing to engage.

I’ve found that “yes” can open doors in the most unexpected ways. Saying yes to joining a friend’s book club once introduced me to people who became lifelong friends. That one word led to connection and growth.

People love being around those who are open—not closed off. And “yes” carries that openness in just three letters.

7. You

“You” is one of the most powerful words in our vocabulary—and like any powerful tool, it can be used in two very different ways.

When used negatively—“You always mess this up” or “You never listen”—it can sound like an attack. That kind of language makes people defensive and pushes them away.

But when used positively, “you” has the opposite effect. It shines the spotlight on someone else, making them feel seen and valued. A simple, “You handled that really well,” or “You’ve been so thoughtful about this,” can light someone up instantly.

I saw this firsthand while working on a group project. Instead of focusing on the collective “we,” I highlighted one teammate by saying, “You brought a great idea that saved us time.” That moment of recognition boosted not only their confidence but also the whole team’s energy.

Research supports this. A study from Stanford University found that when speakers use “you” in a supportive, affirming way, they’re perceived as more receptive and connected.

So the takeaway? Use “you” carefully. When it’s affirming, it becomes a magnet for connection.

8. Love

Not everyone feels comfortable using this word, but when it’s said authentically, “love” is one of the most powerful connectors we have.

Love doesn’t just mean romance. It can be love for your friends, your family, your passions, or even for life itself. When you say things like “I love spending time with you,” or “I love how you did that,” it communicates warmth, appreciation, and openness.

I’ve noticed that the people I enjoy being around most are the ones who aren’t afraid to express love freely. They remind you that it’s okay to show your heart, that affection isn’t weakness but strength.

As Rudá Iandê wrote in his book Laughing in the Face of Chaos, “The greatest gift we can give to ourselves and to each other is the gift of our own wholeness, the gift of our own radiant, unbridled humanity.”

His insights inspired me to rethink how I express love in everyday life—not as something grand or dramatic, but as a simple acknowledgment of connection.

When “love” is part of your natural vocabulary, it signals that you value people, experiences, and life itself. And that energy is magnetic.

Final thoughts

At the end of the day, the words that matter most aren’t about impressing people—they’re about connecting with them.

The real magic happens when your language reflects who you are at your core: respectful, warm, and open. That’s when conversations stop being just exchanges of information and start becoming moments of connection.

As I’ve been reminded lately, it’s not about striving for flawless communication. It’s about letting your words flow from a place of sincerity. That’s what makes people feel drawn to you. That’s what leaves a lasting impression.

Because long after people forget the details of what you said, they’ll remember how you made them feel.