Hours that Jefferson might have devoted to seeing friends in Washington or to writing letters were to be consumed instead by his pursuit of a fairly constant campaign of using his social hours — and particularly his dinner table — as a way of making the rougher edges of politics smooth. He believed that sociability was essential to republicanism. Men who liked and respected and enjoyed one another were more likely to cultivate the virtuous habits that would truly enable the nation’s citizens to engage in “the pursuit of happiness.” An affectionate man living in harmony with his neighbors was more likely to understand the mutual sacrifices of opinion necessary to a republic’s success.

So essentially Obama needs to actually be more social?

 yes and it is something he seems to dislike.  the neat thing is there are many styles of politicians and in the right circumstances, they all can succeed ...obama seems more wonkish and i am not sure 2008-2016 is the Wonk's Time to shine