The ability to act in a way or say something that others are willing to follow is a skill. It is, in fact, an important life talent and even a leadership skill to be able to persuade people into agreeing with you and doing what you say.
“How do I get people to do what I want?” you may ask. Well, it’s certainly not by hypnosis (although that could work)or by saying ‘please’ a hundred times.
As former president Dwight Eisenhower says in a quote about leadership, “Leadership is the art of getting someone else to do something you want to be done because he wants to do it.”
Follow this article and gain helpful tips, tactics, and conversational hacks on acquiring what you want from others without coming off as rude, being ignored, or even destroying relationships.
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Do the Following if You Want People to Do What You Want
1. Persuade Them Into Thinking It Was Their Idea
People like to feel smart. They also like to feel like their opinions matter. That’s why this first point will work like a charm.
If you want people to do what you want, make them think it was their idea in the first place and give them full credit in public.
An example is saying, “you made a comment a few days ago that brought my attention to this…” or “it was your suggestion last week that prompted me to do this…”
2. Offer Help As Well
When you want to ask someone to do something, be willing to give help too. There is always something you can do for someone, especially if the person is helping you.
Be sure to know that you’re willing to return the favor. You can offer help with skill, knowledge, something they are having trouble with, or help them accomplish their goals.
People will be more willing to do what you want if you are ready to help them.
3. Ask Exactly What You Want
If you want to get others to do what you want, be specific. You have to be clear on what you want and how you want it done. It’s this logical: ask specifically if you want a specific result.
Also, making your ask specific will place a certain importance on what is being asked, and people like to be part of something if they think it’s important. Humans like to feel impactful even in the littlest of ways.
Ensure that in your being specific, you point out why you’re asking for that thing, mention the benefits of getting it done, and what the person stands to gain.
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4. Mimic The Person’s Actions
This is a great psychological hack. When speaking to someone in a bid to have them do what you want, try to mirror the person’s exact actions.
These actions could include facial expressions, body language, stance, and even gestures.
Without the person’s knowledge, he/she would be willing to do what you say.
Mirroring a person’s actions makes them feel accepted by you and gives a sense of belonging.
5. Show Appreciation
As simple as this sounds, it goes a very long way. Giving thanks can never be underrated, nor can it go out of fashion.
People love to feel like their efforts are seen and valued. When someone goes out of their way to help you with something, always show appreciation.
Whether it’s a simple “thank you” or sending a thank you mail or even writing a letter to them, gratitude is a must!
You could also decide to gift said person. Do not underestimate the power of appreciation.
People will be more willing to do what you want when you’ve shown proper appreciation to them before or they see you do so with others.
However, make sure you are sincere in doing this as people can see through a fake appreciation act, and then you will just come off as manipulative.
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Conclusion
Getting people to do what you want them to do is not only a skill but also essential in life.
Whether it’s from your parents, co-workers, boss, friends, or even your children, you can’t help but be happier when you have a certain influence on the life of others.