I’m sure millions have read books on this topic – who doesn’t want to know how to get what they want, persuade, and influence others?
From the mouth of a child here’s a powerful example of influence. Are you ready?
I recently heard a little boy string together a rather odd grouping of words: “Apple, please, absolutely.” He would name whatever he wanted, then “please” immediately followed by “absolutely”. His voice would be slightly raised and expectant.
Here’s how he developed his influential code words: previously, he would demand what he wanted by simply saying the word, in our example above, apple. His dad would then encourage: “say please”. As expected, the clever little tike would reply “apple please” and his father would gratifyingly say: “Absolutely!”
It occurred to him that he could dispense with a step or two by putting the magic words together. No waiting, no repetitive requests – instant gratification. (There’s a downside, but that’s another story)
Now, what’s in this for you at home or at work?
Just pause. Think for a moment about the person in front of you. Life is always give and take. It’s civil, and mutually beneficial, to anticipate the needs and requirements of those before us. Demonstrating that you know, to a certain degree, what and how they think, is showing them, you listen. And it also demonstrates that you are willing to be as compliant as you possibly can be, without manipulation. Follow the cues you’ve been given and claim what you have earned.
Do well, please, absolutely!
