--- title: '6 tactics for persuading and influencing other people' url: 'https://tonypiper.coach/articles/6-tactics-for-persuading-and-influencing-other-people' date: '2023-01-27' updated: '2024-12-04' author: 'Tony Piper' description: 'Six practical tactics for persuading others, from simple requests to appealing to values. Learn which approach works best and when.' tags: - 'Ship 30 for 30 2023' - Communication --- # 6 tactics for persuading and influencing other people By Tony Piper, January 27, 2023 • [Ship 30 for 30 2023](https://tonypiper.coach/tags/ship-30-for-30-2023) [Communication](https://tonypiper.coach/tags/communication) 6 tactics for persuading and influencing other people: 1\. **Request - "can you do this for me, \[please\]?"** This is where we generally start when we have no connection or relationship with the other person. Use this if you have no other option. And please say please. 2\. **Legitimising - "X said you need to do this"** If they don't respond to our Request, we could invoke the name of a person, department or organisation that the other person respects (or fears). But most of the time it doesn't feel great, and it undermines your own authority. 3\. **Rational Persuasion - "It makes sense to do this because..."** With some level of connection, we can explain why we need them to take action, listing the pros and cons and constructing a logical argument. 4\. **Exchange - "if you do this for me, I'll do that for you"** If we know (or can guess) what's important to the other person, we can propose a deal. Be careful though - it can feel like bribery. 5\. **Appeal to Relationship - "can you help me (as a long-standing friend)"** If we already have an established relationship, we can lean on that. 6\. **Appeal to Values - "this will help you live your value of X"** Finally, if we know their values, we can frame the ask in terms of how it will help them live one or more of their values. *"I know the hours will be long but this project is a great opportunity for you to do something good for the environment".* **This is the most effective tactic - so make a point of getting to know people and their values before you need to ask them to do something for you.** Use responsibly.