The easiest way to be more persuasive – from Dr Cialdini
An easy way to be more persuasive is to use the “But You Are Free” technique as mentioned by Dr Cialdini. A simple phrase that can be added to the end of a proposal which has shown to have amazing persuasive effectiveness. Persuasive skills have been highly valued and are seen as a skill worth learning (see linkedin).
This is how you can be more persuasive with the “But You Are Free” technique:
When you make a proposal to someone, to agree with or accept your suggestion, product, service or idea, you just bring up the simple fact that they are free to choose. You are reconfirming that they have that ability to make their own decisions. Here are some examples of using the “But You Are Free” technique:
- “But you are free.”
- “It is up to you of course.”
- “Don’t feel obligated.”
- “Whatever you prefer.”
- “See for yourself.”
- “The choice is yours.”
- “Only if you want it.”
That is how simple it is to be more persuasive with your proposal using the “But You Are Free” technique.
The research on this Costless way to be more persuasive
Don’t underestimate the effectiveness of the “But You Are Free” technique. This is a powerful persuasion insight.
Dr. Chris Carpenter who is from the Western Illinois University reviewed a total of 42 studies which involved a total of over 22,000 participants. He found that in situations where this technique was used, people reacted positively TWICE as frequent compared with people where this simple style of persuasion was not included.
- when it came to agreeing to surveys, more people agreed, and
- gave more money when they were asked
The video describes the outcome of an implementation of a ‘But you are Free’ request.
Where can the “But You Are Free” technique be used to be more persuasive?
Here is the great news about the “But You Are Free” technique: it can be used in may different situations, like:
- Face to face meetings
- Telephone conversations
- Online interactions
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