How to Persuade Someone to Do Something
How to be more persuasive
Wouldn't it be great if you could persuade everyone to accept your view; if you could persuade everyone that your idea is the best one, and that they should follow your proposal?
In order for this to happen they have to believe your idea is: True, worthwhile, practical and preferably easy.
1. How to make people say "That's true!"
Point to observable facts that prove your idea is demonstrably true in reality. Use logical arguments based on observable facts and show that your idea is a logical deduction from facts.
2. How to make people believe your idea is worthwhile.
If you can show that your idea will lead to pleasurable, beneficial or profitable consequences for the other person, they will tend to think the idea is great.
You need to sell the benefits of your idea from the perspective of the other person's self-interest.
Use words such as gain, achieve, earn, win, receive, money, profit, free time or pleasure.
3. Show them your idea is practical.
Figure out the practical aspects of your idea. How can you make the idea a practical reality? What steps would need to be taken. How much would it cost. What technology would be needed. What skills and knowledge would need to be found?
If you cannot demonstrate how the plan would work in practice, others will doubt its practicality. You need to do sufficient research to show how it could be done.
4. Tell them it will be easy.
Nobody likes things to be too hard, or too complicated. They prefer things that are straight forward and simple.
Therefore, use words such as straight-forward, simple, easy, step by step, effortless.
5. Tell them it will be fun.
Everyone likes fun. If the task itself is not fun, then tell them that the people they will be doing the task with, are fun. For example "You will be working with the bomb disposal team who are a terrific bunch! You will have a lot of fun working with them!"
Use words such as fun, enjoy, relish, like, happy, laugh.
6. Get them on-board.
If you don't "close the sale" there and then, the chances are they will soon lose interest.
As soon as you can get them started on the process, they will have emotionally committed.
Ensure that the initial activities you give them are indeed quick, easy and fun.
Try these tactics next time you want to persuade someone to do something.
Blogs by Email
Do you want to receive an email whenever we post a new blog? The blogs contain article 5-10 minutes long - ideal for reading during your coffee break!
Further Reading in Personal Effectiveness
-
How to make the most of your journey to work
Commuting to work can be tedious and mind-numbingly boring. So, we have put together some suggestions on how you can make the most of your down time stuck in traffic, or waiting for the train. Use your down time to improve yourself.
Read Article > -
Having the Last Word
Many people have to have the last word in an argument, maybe it makes them feel powerful, or perhaps they just like arguing. By letting them have the last word, you then become the one with the empowerment, indicating that the discussion is closed.
Read Article > -
How Can I Improve My Performance at Work?
If you want your career to progress, you need to improve your performance at work. Find ways to add more value to more people, and you will succeed.
Read Article > -
What is Impression Management?
Impression management is the art of presenting yourself in a positive way. First impressions do count, especially in interviews and business situations. Learn the art of leaving good impressions wherever you go.
Read Article > -
Actualising Potential: The Power of Purposeful Practice
Each person holds distinct talents and untapped potential. Yet, realising true mastery goes beyond innate abilities. It entails intentional, purposeful, and diligent practice.
Read Article >
Looking for Personal Development Training?
If you're looking to develop your Personal Effectiveness Skills, you may find this Personal Development Training Course beneficial:
Open Training Course Pricing and Availability
Next Open Course Starts in 5 days, Online - Teams, places available