The Level Up Letter - Vol. 37 - Under The Influence

Understanding the Six Principles of Influence and Persuasion

Author

Better Board Meeting
August 30, 2024

THE LEVEL UP LETTER

Hi All!
Here is your weekly Level Up Letter. This week we’re taking a look at the power of Influence. How you can use the principles of influence in your own life and notice the things that are influencing you. We hope you enjoy!

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

INFLUENCE AND PERSUASION

Influence is a vital skill for anyone looking to lead, inspire, and make an impact. Whether in business, personal relationships, or broader community interactions, understanding how to effectively influence others can open doors to countless opportunities. It can keep a team aligned to a project or mission, get your kids to do their chores or align parties in a negotiation.

On the flip side, it can be used against us. We now have a whole industry of “Influencers” designed to get you to buy things. The news and politicians use influence and persuasion to stoke fear. People in your life might use it to feel like you don’t below.

Let’s dive into the principles of Influence to better understand how it works. This way you can be better prepared to use it for good and know when it’s being used against you.

SIX PRINCIPLES OF INFLUENCE

1. Reciprocity: People are inclined to give back the kind of treatment they have received. In practice, if you do something beneficial for others, they are likely to reciprocate.

2. Commitment and Consistency: Once people commit to what they think, say, or do, they are more likely to honor that commitment. Demonstrate consistency in your own actions to foster trust and influence.

3. Social Proof: Individuals look to the actions and behaviors of others to determine their own. You can leverage this by showing endorsements and testimonials from credible sources.

4. Authority: People respect authority and expertise. Share your knowledge and experience to enhance your credibility and influence in discussions.

5. Liking: People prefer to say yes to those they like. Build genuine connections through shared interests, compliments, and positive interactions.

6. Scarcity: Highlighting the uniqueness and limited availability of something can increase its perceived value and desirability. Use this principle sparingly to emphasize the exclusive benefits of what you offer.

If you want a deeper dive into this topic and the Six Principles you need to read Influence: They Psychology of Persuasion by Dr. Robert Cialdini

It was based on three "undercover" years applying for and training at used car dealerships, fund-raising organizations, and telemarketing firms to observe real-life situations of persuasion.

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