Influencing Others

There are plenty of things people say in order to influence others. I like to put those utterances into two categories: not-so-hot, and good.

Not-So-Hot

- Everybody else is doing it.
- So and so, supports it.
- Billie Bob (powerful or knowledgeable person) mentioned that he...
- Time is running out.
- There are no other options.
- You promised.
- Isn't it sad?
- If you don't do it, here's what's going to happen.

I don't respond well to the not-so-hot ones because they seem to be appealing to my fears (of being left out or being unloved or failure).

Good

- This is the most direct route to the goal and here's why
- Of all the options just outlined, here's the rational choice
- You do this for me, and I'll do that for you
- I'm just looking you in the eye and asking ...

I like the good ones because they are appeal to my rational side or my straight-up human sensibilities.