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Influence, New and Expanded

Robert B. Cialdini, PhD

661 Pages
2021

Influence, New and Expanded

HarperCollins

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โšก Free 3min Summary

"Influence, New and Expanded" - Summary

Ever wondered why you say yes to certain requests, even when you know better? In this updated edition of his groundbreaking work, Dr. Robert Cialdini, a leading expert in persuasion and influence, explores the fascinating world of "yes" and reveals the psychological principles that make us susceptible to influence. Filled with compelling anecdotes and cutting-edge research, "Influence, New and Expanded" provides a practical and ethical framework for understanding how to become a skilled persuader, while also learning how to defend yourself against manipulation. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to understand the mechanics of influence and apply them ethically in both personal and professional settings.

Key Ideas

1

The Six Universal Principles of Influence

Cialdini details the six key principles that govern human behavior when it comes to persuasion: reciprocation, commitment and consistency, social proof, liking, authority, and scarcity. He demonstrates how each principle operates in our daily lives, offering insightful examples of how marketers, salespeople, and even our own friends and family use them to influence our decisions. Importantly, the new edition introduces a seventh principle: unity. This principle highlights the power of shared identity and belonging in increasing compliance.

2

The Ethical Application of Persuasion

Cialdini emphasizes the ethical use of persuasion throughout the book. He argues that understanding the principles of influence is not about manipulating others, but rather about communicating effectively and building genuine connections. He provides guidelines and examples for using these principles ethically to achieve win-win outcomes in various personal and professional settings.

3

Defense Against Unethical Influence Tactics

Cialdini doesnโ€™t just equip readers with the tools of persuasion; he empowers them to recognize and resist manipulative tactics. He dissects common unethical persuasion techniques and provides practical strategies for counteracting them. By understanding the psychology behind these tactics, readers can become more discerning decision-makers and protect themselves from being unduly swayed.

FAQ's

The new edition introduces a seventh principle of influence called unity, which emphasizes the power of shared identity and belonging in increasing compliance. Additionally, it includes updated research and new anecdotes to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the principles of influence.

Dr. Robert Cialdini emphasizes that the principles of influence should be used ethically to foster genuine connections and achieve win-win outcomes. He provides guidelines and examples to ensure that persuasion is used responsibly, rather than as a tool for manipulation.

The book dissects common unethical persuasion techniques and offers practical strategies for recognizing and resisting them. By understanding the psychology behind these tactics, readers can become more discerning decision-makers and protect themselves from being unduly swayed.

๐Ÿ’ก Full 15min Summary

The Power of Social Proof
0:00 / 1:55

One of the most powerful tools of influence is social proof. This key idea explores how people tend to look to others for cues on how to behave, especially when they are uncertain about what to do. The concept of social proof is explained in this key idea by using different examples and studies.

One popular example of social proof is the "As Seen on TV" phenomenon. When people see a product that has been advertised on TV, they are more likely to buy it because they believe that others have already tried and tested it. This is also why reviews and testimonials can be so effective in persuading people to make a purchase. By showing that other people have had a positive experience with a product, potential customers are more likely to trust and buy it.

Another example of social proof is how people tend to follow the crowd. Studies have shown that people are more likely to conform to group behavior, even if it goes against their own beliefs or values. This can be seen in situations like riots or protests, where individuals may act in ways they wouldn't normally because they are swept up in the group mentality.

Social proof can also be used to influence people's behavior in positive ways. For example, a study showed that hotels can encourage guests to reuse their towels by putting signs in the bathroom that say "75% of guests in this room reuse their towels." This social proof approach was more effective than simply asking guests to reuse their towels without any statistics.

Overall, social proof is a powerful tool of influence because people tend to follow the behavior of others, especially when they are unsure of how to act. By using social proof in advertising, testimonials, and public messaging, individuals and organizations can effectively persuade others to take action in a certain way.

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