Covert Persuasion Techniques Using the Persuasion Law of Expectation

In this eye-opening article, I’ll reveal some astonishing covert persuasion techniques to help you persuade and influence people to do what you want.

Ever heard of the expression “You get what you expect?” It’s a fact supported by a persuasion law known as expectation, and written below are 4 covert persuasion techniques utilizing this principle.

Covert Persuasion Technique # 1 - Use Parkinson’s Law

Want to know how to use expectation to persuade others to accomplish tasks 2 times, 3 times, or even many times faster? If the task requires 3 months to finish, tell them it has to be done within 3 weeks. The magic in this is that the work will be completed in a span of time based on a person’s expectation of how much time is required to do it. Parkinson's Law states "work expands so as to fill the time available for its completion."

If they cannot absolutely do it in that span of time, use another covert persuasion technique – the principle of comparison. Tell them that if they can produce excellent results, they will be given, let’s say, a 2-week extension. They will compare the 2 time frames and may even thank you for giving them enough time! You gave them the impression that they are given a lot of time (because you’ve added 2 weeks to the original 3-week deadline), even when the task can take up to 3 months to finish.

Covert Persuasion Technique # 2 – Be Specific.

Another great tip to maximize the power of expectation is to be as specific as possible. If you can say, “I know you’re a fast writer who can turn out at least 7 quality articles within 5 hours” instead of “I know you to be a fast and efficient writer,” then the results will be better and more accurate.

Covert Persuasion Technique # 3 - Find Similarities and Point That Out.

To successfully influence people, find any point of similarity between you and the person you're persuading.

For example, both of you are members of a reputable association. You can say something like, "As a fellow member of 'Justice for All Inc.,' I know you want justice to be served at all times. I respect you and regard you as one of my heroes. I'm sure many people treat you the same. Just want to thank you in advance for continuing the fight to give justice to Mr. Jones.”

Covert Persuasion Technique # 4 – Expect To Be Expected.

Keep in mind also that people base their expectations on various aspects such as your physical qualities, your surroundings, etc. Everyone will expect a neatly dressed and well-groomed person to be wealthy and successful; that’s why it pays to look good when you’re persuading others. If you wear dirty clothes and have unkempt hair, you’ll be treated as someone who has bad manners, and they won’t expect good outcome from you. The same goes if you have an orderly and tidy home. People will expect you to be an organized person.

These 4 covert persuasion techniques can be applied in almost any situation. Just remember to communicate your expectation well and you’ll see great results.