Ever wonder why some people instantly light up a room? It’s often the simple phrases they use in conversation. Discover seven powerful things naturally charismatic people say—and how you can use them to connect more deeply in everyday life.
What makes some people so magnetic?
You know the type.
The friend who instantly lights up the room, the coworker who always seems to win people over, the neighbor who somehow makes small talk in the grocery aisle feel like a genuine connection.
It’s not about looks, money, or even social status. A huge part of charisma lies in the way we communicate—specifically, the words we choose.
Naturally charismatic people often say things that make others feel seen, valued, and at ease.
And here’s the best part: you don’t have to be born with some mysterious charm gene to learn these habits.
Let’s look at seven simple but powerful phrases that charismatic people tend to use in everyday conversations—and how you can weave them into your own life.
1) “Tell me more about that.”
One of the quickest ways to become magnetic is to shift the spotlight away from yourself and onto the other person.
Charismatic people are great listeners. Instead of just nodding politely, they dig deeper with curiosity. Saying “Tell me more about that” is an invitation.
It signals that you’re genuinely interested, not just waiting for your turn to talk.
Think about the last time someone really leaned in and wanted to hear more about your story. Didn’t it feel good? Didn’t you feel instantly more connected to them?
This phrase works everywhere—on a first date, during a team meeting, even when chatting with the barista who mentions they’re studying for exams.
It transforms surface-level conversations into moments of genuine connection.
2) “I hadn’t thought of it that way before.”
Ever notice how some people can disagree with you without making you feel defensive? This is one of their secret weapons.
When you say, “I hadn’t thought of it that way before,” you show openness. You’re not shutting down the conversation or insisting on being right—you’re allowing space for new perspectives.
And that is deeply charismatic.
Years ago, when I worked in finance, I was in a meeting where a younger analyst challenged a common assumption. My first instinct was to brush it off.
But then my boss said, “That’s interesting—I hadn’t thought of it that way before.” You could feel the energy in the room shift. The younger analyst lit up.
Everyone else felt encouraged to share their own ideas.
That phrase doesn’t mean you automatically agree. It simply means you’re curious. And people love to be around those who are open-minded.
3) “You’re really good at this.”
Charismatic people are quick to notice the strengths of others—and they don’t keep those observations to themselves.
Now, this isn’t about tossing out empty compliments. It’s about paying attention and voicing genuine appreciation. Maybe your colleague has a knack for staying calm under pressure.
Maybe your friend always remembers the tiniest details. Maybe the cashier at your local store handles a long line with grace.
“You’re really good at this” lands differently because it’s specific. It acknowledges effort and skill. And it makes people feel valued for more than just surface traits.
The truth is, we’re all walking around with silent doubts about ourselves. A simple, authentic recognition can be the highlight of someone’s day—and it costs you nothing.
4) “What do you think?”
Here’s a phrase that makes others feel included, respected, and valued.
Charismatic people don’t hog the spotlight; they share it.
By asking, “What do you think?” they’re signaling: your opinion matters. It’s such a small phrase, but it can be transformative.
I use this one often at the farmers’ market where I volunteer. When a customer seems hesitant between two seasonal veggies, I’ll sometimes ask another shopper nearby, “What do you think?”
Suddenly, it’s no longer just a transaction—it becomes a mini-community moment where people connect with each other.
In professional settings, this phrase can build trust quickly. It makes colleagues feel like collaborators rather than bystanders.
And in personal relationships, it reminds people that their voice matters to you.
5) “That reminds me of when…”
Stories are powerful. They’re how humans have connected for centuries. And charismatic people use them wisely—not to dominate conversations, but to create bridges.
When you say, “That reminds me of when…” you’re linking your experience with someone else’s. It’s like saying, “I get you. I’ve been there too.”
Of course, this phrase works best when the story you share is relevant and short. Nobody likes a monologue that hijacks the conversation.
But a quick, thoughtful anecdote can make the other person feel understood and less alone in their experience.
For example, when a friend recently told me about struggling to balance work and family, I shared how I felt the same tension when I first transitioned from corporate life to writing.
It wasn’t about making the conversation about me—it was about offering a thread of empathy.
Used well, stories deepen connection. They show vulnerability, humor, and humanity—all hallmarks of charisma.
6) “I really appreciate that.”
Expressing gratitude has a magnetic quality. Charismatic people sprinkle it generously throughout their conversations.
Instead of letting kindness or effort go unnoticed, they highlight it. “I really appreciate that” is stronger than just saying “thanks.”
It carries a deeper weight, showing that you’re not only grateful but also aware of the impact someone has had on you.
Think about the difference between “Thanks for your help” and “I really appreciate you staying late to help me finish this project.” One is polite. The other is personal.
I’ve noticed that when I use this phrase consistently, relationships strengthen almost effortlessly. People feel seen, valued, and motivated to keep showing up with the same energy.
Gratitude doesn’t just reflect charisma—it amplifies it.
7) “I believe in you.”
This might be the most powerful phrase of all.
We all have moments when we doubt ourselves—whether it’s starting a new job, training for a race, or just tackling a daunting life decision.
When someone looks at us and says, “I believe in you,” it can be the spark that keeps us going.
Charismatic people aren’t afraid to voice their faith in others. And here’s the secret: you don’t have to wait for a grand occasion to use this phrase. It works beautifully in everyday life.
A friend stressing about a presentation? A sibling hesitant about moving to a new city? A coworker unsure if they should pitch their idea?
“I believe in you” can carry them through the doubt.
Years ago, when I decided to leave finance and step into writing full-time, a friend said those exact words to me.
To this day, I credit that encouragement as one of the reasons I took the leap. That’s the power of expressing belief—it can change the course of someone’s story.
Final thoughts
Charisma isn’t about being the loudest in the room or telling the funniest jokes. It’s about making people feel important, understood, and uplifted in your presence.
Phrases like “Tell me more,” “I hadn’t thought of it that way,” or “I believe in you” might seem small—but they create ripples. They spark warmth, trust, and genuine connection.
If you start weaving these into your daily conversations, you’ll notice something remarkable: people will lean in, light up, and walk away from you feeling better than they did before.
And isn’t that the real essence of charisma?
So here’s my challenge: pick just one of these phrases to use today. Watch the impact it has—not just on the person you’re speaking to, but on yourself.
Because the truth is, when you make others feel good, your own presence naturally shines.
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