Takeaways:
- Grant studies Steve Jobs as an example of someone who was famously willing to be persuaded by those around him– and points to multiple world-changing Apple successes that he had initially opposed, including the Iphone and AppleTV.
- He points to four tactics for persuading someone to reconsider their positions:
- Ask them to explain their positions in extreme depth, which shows them that they may not know a topic as well as they think they do
- Make them feel that they are in control of the conversation, then turn persuasion into a gradual “a game of catch,” chipping away at holes in their positions and displaying the merits of yours.
- Praise a narcissist – earn their trust by praising those who believe that their correctness is a part of their personal worth.
- Disagree with people who tend to be Disagreeable– politely fight for your ideas to show your conviction in them.
- Persuasion is an important part of progress, Grant argues that, “When leaders lack the wisdom to question their convictions, followers need the courage to persuade them to change their minds.”
From Adam Grant at Harvard Business Review:
Note: At the time of this posting Harvard Business Review offers four free article views per month.
This site may contain links to articles or other information that may be contained on a third-party website. Advisory Services Network, LLC and MAP Strategic Wealth Advisors are not responsible for and do not control, adopt, or endorse any content contained on any third party website. The information and material contained in linked articles is of a general nature and is intended for educational purposes only. Links to articles do not constitute a recommendation or a solicitation or offer of the purchase or sale of securities.
