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.
