Have you ever just really wanted to change someone’s mind, but you had a pretty tough time convincing them that your way was the best way? It happens to all of us at some point – we really want someone to jump on board with our idea, a concept, a fun activity – but they just won’t budge. From convincing someone on your team at work to talking a friend into something that will be great for both of you, knowing a few tricks of the trade is the name of the game. I recently stumbled upon a great article in Bustle that went through this in pretty awesome detail. Here’s a few highlights and if you think these tricks will work for you, catch the full article, here.
How to Get Someone to See Your Side
Earn Trust. Seems like pretty sound advice, right? It really is, and it’s one of the best ways to get someone to see your side of the debate. Here’s what Bustle had to say:
The more familiar the other person is with your values and the alignment between your values and your actions, the more likely that person is to trust you. “With trust comes the willingness to consider your viewpoint and be swayed by it,” says Dr. Marlene Carosell, author of Principled Persuasion, over email. “Start earning a track record of proven reliability. If the situation does not allow for the establishment of such trust because of time limits, cite examples of how you have done what you’ve said you’d do in the past.”
Make the person think it was his or her own idea. That’s pretty accurate, wouldn’t you agree? When I feel like I came up with an idea on my own, I’m usually quick to run with it. When I’m feeling like someone is trying to sway me, it’s more difficult to get on board. Here’s what Bustle had to say:
People are more likely to change their mind if they reach the conclusion for themselves, not because someone told them to. “In the conversation, get them to think about why they may want to change their mind or behavior,” says Parmely. “One tactic that often works is asking them to actively list the pros and cons of changing their mind or behavior, because that allows them to realize the need for change and to take action on their own.”
Use real-life and relatable examples. Wouldn’t you say that when you’ve seen something work or happen successfully to someone else, you’re so much more willing to try it? That’s exactly how it works for me and I can think of lots of people in my life who need those real-world examples too. Once you know someone else can do it, you’re much more likely to take the plunge. Take look at what Bustle had to say:
The same study also found that persuasive arguments are supported by specific examples. It can be helpful to use phrases such as “For example” or “For instance.” Definite articles such as “the” are also preferred over indefinite articles such as “a.”
Those were my three favorite tips from the article and are ones I know I can use in my real day-to-day life. No matter what, if you can find a strategic way to be convincing, you’re much more likely to achieve the outcome that you want than if you simply wing it. What do you think, would you give these a try? Don’t forget, you can also check out the rest of Bustle’s great tips, here.
