By Michael Lee
It’s easy to influence anyone if you know the right persuasion tactics to use. Here’s a list of 7 powerful techniques to get the most out of your persuasion efforts.
Persuasion Tactic # 1: Start your discussion on the right track.
One of the biggest mistakes people make in persuasion is that they start talking about a topic or situation that the other person is not yet aware or familiar with.
I have a friend who often dives into the middle of a story or subject, which leaves me (and I assume many other people) clueless on what he’s talking about. It’s important to start your discussion on a point that people can relate to, preferably from the very beginning, unless you’re sure that they already know the foundation of the topic of discussion.
Persuasion Tactic # 2: Be crystal clear in imparting your message.
When you say, “He’s mad” do you mean he’s angry or do you mean he’s crazy? Whenever you’re going to say or write something that is vague or may lead to miscommunication, it’s highly recommended that you change the words in a way that imparts a clear message.
Persuasion Tactic # 3: Give them a summary or an overall glimpse of the big picture.
This is vital when talking about something that takes a little (or a lot more) time to comprehend. This way, they can better relate the discussion to the big picture and “absorb” what you’re saying.
Persuasion Tactic # 4: Stay humble.
Never brag or be arrogant because it’s a big turn-off. The other party may think (in his own mind) that he’s better than you, and you’ll just bruise his ego.
You may even feign to not know things you may already be aware of, if it would give you an edge in persuading him. Give him the impression that you are an ally, and not in competition with him.
Persuasion Tactic # 5: Pay attention to what is being said instead of thinking what you’ll say next.
This may be a little difficult for you to do initially. That’s why it is critical to practice & enhance your persuasion skills until it becomes a part of you. When listening, don’t interrupt while they’re talking. Wait a second or two before you speak. Avoid changing subjects because this indicates your disinterest.
Persuasion Tactic # 6: Choose the right time.
When they’re not in the mood or when they’re pressed with time, your persuasion efforts may just fall into deaf ears because they will not give you attention.
Ask first if you can have a few minutes of their time. If they say it’s not a good time, ask for a time that fits their schedule.
Persuasion Tactic # 7: Never disrespect anyone.
Watch out for the body signals that you are giving away. You might be pouting your lips, breathing heavily, shaking your head, or rolling your eyes without you being aware that you’re offending others.
Watch your language too. If saying “Whatever,” “Oh brother,” or “Yeah right” is part of your lingo, practice taking them out of your vocabulary.
Practice and apply these 7 persuasion tactics, and you’ll be able to influence people faster than anyone else.
Michael Lee is the author of the highly acclaimed How To Be An Expert Persuader… In 20 Days or Less. It reveals mind-altering persuasion secrets to greatly enhance your relationships, boost your career and business, and persuade anyone to willingly and eagerly do what you want… without them knowing it.
Persuasion Tactic # 2: Be crystal clear in imparting your message. Considering my own interpretation of this blog, You could say it appears general. As a question, could it benefit the reader if you were to draw upon stronger metaphors? The transition between reading and understanding could become accelerated?
Thanks for your comment
I am not quite sure what you mean. Do you mean “the example in tactic #2 is not clear”? In which case I need to clarify that it was written by Michael Lee, so I can’t change it. But also that “mad” has least 2 meanings, especially if we use it out of context like the example.
Do you mean “the blog is too general”? In which case, what specifically is too general? Do you mean you would like stronger examples in the blog generally? Because that is darn hard to fix. Or you can’t understand something in particular?
I do agree that the written word is the most difficult way to gain understanding
And this probably illustrates Persuasion Tactic#2. You need to be clear which “it”, “that” etc you are referring to. Words like “understanding” and “communicating” are an absolute minefield when it comes to delivering a clear message. So please comment if something particular could be made clearer