How to Get the X Factor
Whether you want to win a talent contest or just be more popular, developing an "X factor" can help. Here's how to boost your winsome ways.
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You Will Need
- Originality
- Confidence
- Courage
- Perseverance
- Metaphors (optional)
Steps
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Step 1
Know the definition
Know what the X factor is -- that elusive star quality that's difficult to define because it's a little different in everyone who possesses it.
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Step 2
Be original
Be original. You don't get the X factor by copying other people's style.
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Step 3
Make others feel special
Make others feel special. People who have that "certain something" can usually make whomever they're talking with feel like a million bucks.
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Step 4
Speak confidently
Speak quickly; people who do are rated more charismatic than those who speak slowly. And get rid of filler speech such as "ums" and "you knows"; it undermines the confidence you want to project.
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Pepper your speech with metaphors; research shows that U.S. presidents who did were rated as more charismatic than their less colorful counterparts.
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Step 5
Be fearless
Be fearless. People with the X factor are not afraid to take risks -- or to fail.
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Step 6
Persevere
Pursue your goals. Because who's going to know you have the X factor if you don't put it out there?
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TV Producer Simon Cowell recommends that you not sing "I'm Yours," by Jason Mraz or "Hello" by Lionel Richie at your X Factor audition.
