Eight Steps To Positive Influence

Illustration by Ajda Gregorčič

We are persuaded by people we like

Spend time getting to know someone before asking a favour. The more they like you or feel you have something in common, the more likely they are to agree.

If you want a favour – do a favour

Do someone a good deed and they’ll want to return the favour.

First ask for something small

If you just made a good connection, don’t gamble it away by asking for too much too soon.

Stick to your commitment

Once we’ve made a commitment it’s important to our sense of self-esteem to stick to it.

Happy to follow the crowd

If most people decide on a particular course of action, we feel more comfortable doing it, too. To persuade a colleague to follow your strategy, build consensus with others in the office.

Don’t use scare tactics

They simply don’t work. Provide useful information instead.

Fatigue or emotion affect decisions

Always make big decisions when you feel alert an are somewhere quiet. To rein in emotions, recite a times table or count back from 100 in 13s – numbers. Help focus on facts rather than feelings.

Give reasons for your strong opinions

Say “I think this and that is good BECAUSE….”

Read also:

8 STEPS TO IMPROVE YOUR PERSUASIVE SKILLS

HOW TO GET SOMEONE TALKING

IF BEING CRITISISED REMEMBER…

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Technorati Tags: influence, interpersonal communication, positive psychology