Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you bought that 100th pair of shoes that you don’t need? Or take care of the neighbors’ children instead of going to the movies? Well, that’s probably because you don’t even realize how often people use manipulation tricks on us.
We believe in the saying “forewarned is forearmed” and spreading the word. So, scroll down to find out 6 ways you can be tricked into doing what others want.
“But All Your Friends Are Doing It.”
There’s a whole science on how to get someone to buy something when they don’t need it. Store salespeople often pay attention to a customer’s appearance and social group. So, whether you are a student, a working mother or a housewife, they will tell you “everyone like you buys these dresses”!
This is how paid Instagram promotions work: you follow people more or less like you, they promote something, you feel left out, and you need what they have.
“Aim Lower” Method
There’s a marketing method that says if you get a no, ask again, but make the request smaller and smoother, or even do something that seems like a favor to the person, and your chances of getting a yes will be greatly increased.
For example, if a coworker asks you for $ 100, the chances of hearing a yes are low. But if you order a smaller amount, say $ 30, and promise to pay it back in a week, the chances are much higher, aren’t they?
A Personal Touch
Researchers at Sam Houston State University found that study participants were more likely to agree to complete a survey if it included a handwritten message asking for their help.
“It shows the importance of a personal touch,” says Jephtha Tausig-Edwards, a clinical psychologist who works in New York and Massachusetts.
So when the salesperson asks you your name, what you do for a living, or who you are buying things for, they’re trying to make a connection, seem like a caring person, because it makes the selling process easier.
Constant Approach
According to researchers at Stanford University, people feel uncomfortable when they reject the same person over and over again. So if you decline a request and the same person approaches you later with a different request, they are more likely to agree.
That’s because you either feel guilty or think you let them down the first time, the researchers explain.
Promising Profits
Researchers in Germany have found that people are more likely to agree with something if they hear a personal benefit in the request. This trick is often used by people pursuing their own selfish goals.
Therefore, it is important to be able to distinguish really lucrative offers or sincere requests from friends from people who are trying to cheat you.
You Can Always Say “No.”
There is the ultimate power in giving someone the option to say no. Remembering that they are free and that they are not hostages is also a well-known trick. If you hear “You don’t have to” or “That looks great on you, but you decide.”
Psychologists explain that this technique reminds you of your freedom, makes you feel comfortable, and doubles your chances of saying yes.
Have you ever felt like you are being tricked into doing something? We will be happy to see your stories in the comment section below!
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