Highlights easy-to-use mental tactics that can help guide others’ decisions in everyday situations.
Name
Sure, dropping someone’s name during a conversation gets their attention but it also makes a connection. It sends a signal that they’re important to you and that can make them feel a little warmer toward you.
As simple as it is, this trick helps build rapport & trust. It’ll make other people far more open to your ideas or requests.
Smile
Never underestimate the power of a genuine smile. Why? Because it instantly builds bridges and costs you nothing.
Smiling at someone usually makes them want to return the favor, breaking down walls & making the other person more open to what you have to say.
Plus, it makes you both feel good. That’s always a bonus when you’re trying to get something done.
Eye To Eye
Eye contact can speak louder than words. If you maintain good eye contact, you show that you are confident & sincere.
It tells the person you’re speaking with that you mean what you say and you respect them enough to engage with them fully, which can be especially useful in professional settings.
It’s an easy way to establish credibility and command respect.
Mirror
The mirror trick involves making the person you’re talking to feel understood. If you subtly mimic their posture or gestures, you send a subconscious signal that you’re on the same wavelength.
Of course, that doesn’t mean you should copy every move they make. However, copying their general body language makes them feel more at ease and open to your suggestions.
Favors
It might sound a bit counterintuitive, but it works; ask someone to do you a small favor. There’s this thing called the Benjamin Franklin effect, which dictates that once someone does a favor for you, they’re actually more likely to do another.
Essentially, they invest a little effort into helping you and subconsciously justify it by believing they must like you. Just start small.
Choices
People love to feel in control; it’s just human nature. When you want someone to make a particular decision, give them options that you’re happy with.
For example, instead of asking if they want to sign up for your program, ask whether they’d prefer the standard or premium package.
It’ll make them feel like they’re making a decision but you’ve framed it to achieve your goal.
Reinforcement
Everybody likes to hear they’re doing a great job, so when someone does something you like, let them know. Positive reinforcement is scientifically proven to make people feel appreciated & it motivates them to continue pleasing you.
It’s a win-win; they get a confidence boost and you get more of the behavior you want to see.
Availability
Playing hard to get can actually work in your favor. When you’re not always available, you create a perception of scarcity and increase your perceived value, which makes people more eager to grab opportunities when they’re around.
Think about it like those limited-time offers that pop up; suddenly, everyone wants in before it’s too late.
Nod
Nodding your head while making a point can subtly encourage the other person to agree with you. It’s a cue that what you’re saying is right & should be taken seriously.
More often than not, they’ll start nodding along with you and create a non-verbal agreement that can later lead to actual agreement. Best of all, it’s easy to do.
Silence
Don’t be afraid of a little silence in your conversations because letting it hang can compel the other person to fill it. Usually, this means they’ll agree or concede to things they might not have if you’d kept talking.
Silence is quite powerful; use it to your advantage & let others break it for you.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock.