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Whether you are disliked by some or unpopular because it's what's needed to get the job done, a personality clash or you just want to improve your likeability levels in the workplace... there are some positive steps you can take to be more likeable.

Being more likeable is good it will help advance your career, increase your influence and reduce stress.

Some of the reasons why certain co-workers might dislike you -- even if it is one or two people are wide and varied. For example, misunderstandings, the need for you to be assertive or make unpopular decisions; even be the messenger of bad news.

You can toughen up. Accept it. Say it doesn't worry you. However, no matter what you tell yourself, not being liked or likeable is not good for you.

Clinical psychologist and author of the book 'The Need to be Liked', Dr Roger Covin, says that everyone has a fundamental need to be liked, whereas rejection can lead to anxiety, depression and other subtle, but negative behaviours, like alcohol and drug use or career obsession.

The good news is that you can develop certain traits that will help make you more likeable, even when you have to make hard decisions or carry out unpopular policies.

Here three small behavioural changes that can help make you more likeable:

1. Be a good listener

This means putting away your smartphone, smiling, making eye contact not looking elsewhere, or interrupting the conversation to take a call or have a quick word with someone else (no matter how important).

Nod to show you've heard and understood, and that you're thinking about what is being said. You don't have to agree with what is being said, but ask lots of questions seek to understand.

Author of 'Duct Tape Isn't Enough: Survival Skills for the 21st Century', Dr Ron Breazeale, says that if people are angry or upset, keep your expression neutral, listen, nod, repeat back or echo key phrases to make sure you understand. Let them know you understand, or that you are trying to understand; ask lots of questions.

2. Practise friendliness.

This doesn't mean you have to be a friend to everybody. It just means that actively look for reasons to smile more often. Greet people without waiting to be greeted first. Remember their first names and use them frequently.

3. Be professional.

This means tidying up after yourself in the kitchen. Be punctual for work activities and socials. Do your job and consciously avoiding gossip.

When you get cornered by a gossip, be polite, but avoid reciprocating the conversation. Look for a way to excuse yourself when it is polite to do so. Don't share negative things about other people.