Whether in business or in everyday life, influence is invaluable. U.S. author Ken Blanchard said, “The key to successful leadership today is influence, not authority.” And influence has been defined as the capacity or power of a person, persons or things to be a compelling force on or produce effects on the actions, behaviour, opinions, etc., of others. Or simply, the action or process of producing effects on the actions, behaviour, opinions, etc., of another or others.
Being in a position of authority is the easiest way to influence people especially when your word is almost law. However, when you don’t have the authority to command people, you have to use subtle psychological means to persuade them. While it might sound a bit difficult sometimes to possess the ability to convince other people to do anything you want, it’s actually not that difficult. People like salesmen, cult leaders, politicians and public speakers devote their lives to mastering the art of persuasion. It may sound grand, but their methods are quite straightforward when you break them down.
Here are few ways to achieve what it takes to influence people and make them change their minds.
1. Understand your audience
It is important to understand the nature of your audience before starting a case. Understanding who they are, how they think and why they think the way they do gives you several advantages. When you understand the people you are trying to influence, you will be able to empathize with them, establish a human connection, and you will be able to construct better arguments to show why your view is better than the one they are currently holding.
2. Appeal to their self-interest
Always remember that the question; “what is in it for me/for us?” will always be at the back of people’s minds when you are trying to convince them about an idea. If you show them what they stand to gain from your idea, and how your idea will satisfy their needs, they will give you their attention to you and be ready to accept you. But for this to work, you’ll need to know what your audience’s needs are.
3. Feed their ego
Some call this strategic flattery. Regardless of the name, complimenting people works — when done right. Find things that your audience takes pride in, such as their intelligence or other qualities they are known for. When you recognize your audience’s qualities and compliment them, they’ll feel appreciated and be more open to your words.
4. Gain their trust
When people hold a particular view or belief, they will automatically be wary of anyone who’s trying to change their minds otherwise. So, it’s paramount to gain their trust by convincing them that you are sincere and know what you’re talking about. Let them know there is good reason why you think the way you do and show them why you should be heard.
5. Structure your argument well
Any persuasive argument, be it a speech, an essay, or a sales pitch, has a clear structure. When writing your speech or putting your words together, save your most powerful points for last, and try to repeat the most important arguments as they will linger in the minds of your captive audience. Always remember that repetition establishes a pattern that remains in the memory.
6. Use the Authority
Everyone loves experts. Everyone listens, or pretends to listen to experts. If an expert says something, then it must be true. So use experts in your talk. Find out how some specialists or experts in your area of belief have endorsed or approved your idea, or elements of it through books, quotes, or direct endorsements. But don’t overdo it.
7. Be Your Charming Self
Remember to be unique, confident, and stay interesting. Find a way to demonstrate that you hold exclusive information or by suggesting that there’s a competitor for what you have to offer. Also remember that you are your own best advocate, so you better have faith in your cause. Finally, always show that you are excited about your idea; staying energized appeals to people’s senses all the time. Learn how to use your powers of persuasion well and at the appropriate moments. With time and practice, you’ll be able to influence people’s decisions on any number of areas.
About the author: Chris Bamidele is a passionate and unapologetic Nigerian, who believes in God and humanity. He is a writer, blogger, and an aspiring Television Director; and an optimist to the core. He blogs at www.chrisbamidele.wordpress.com and tweets @Chrisbamidele.
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This article was first published on 19th January 2015
chris-bamidele
Chris Bamidele is a passionate and unapologetic Nigerian, who believes in God and humanity. He is a writer, blogger, and an aspiring Television Director; and an optimist to the core. He blogs at www.chrisbamidele.wordpress.com and tweets @Chrisbamidele.
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