People may like you more than you think after first meeting

 New research highlights that individuals frequently misjudge how much others enjoy their company during interactions. This phenomenon, known as the liking gap, shows that people are harsher judges of their own performance. Participants in studies indicated they liked their partners more than expected. Observers are often unaware of each other’s internal doubts and nervousness during conversations. Understanding this may encourage more positive interactions as connections develop over time. New research highlights that individuals frequently misjudge how much others enjoy their company during interactions. This phenomenon, known as the liking gap, shows that people are harsher judges of their own performance. Participants in studies indicated they liked their partners more than expected. Observers are often unaware of each other’s internal doubts and nervousness during conversations. Understanding this may encourage more positive interactions as connections develop over time.