Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion
Discover why saying 'yes' is easier than you think and master the hidden principles behind everyday persuasion and compliance.
About This Book
Step into a world where subtle social cues, clever strategies, and psychological shortcuts shape our choices in ways we rarely acknowledge. 'Influence Science and Practice' opens your eyes to the invisible forces driving your decisions—at home, school, work, and beyond. Through jaw-dropping real-life stories, relatable examples, and practical frameworks, you'll learn how six core psychological triggers—reciprocation, consistency, social proof, liking, authority, and scarcity—can work for or against you. Whether you seek to persuade, protect, or simply understand why you (and everyone else) do what you do, this toolkit will transform how you see yourself and your surroundings, empowering you to spot hidden influences and use them consciously.About the Author
Robert B. Cialdini, Regents’ Professor of Psychology at Arizona State University, is globally recognized for groundbreaking research on social influence and persuasion. With prestigious training from leading universities and a unique background—growing up in a diverse neighborhood—he combines scientific rigor with a knack for real-world observation. Cialdini’s insights have shaped fields from marketing to behavioral science, making his work a foundation for everyone from CEOs to students determined to understand and ethically harness the science of influence.
Biggest Takeaway
You'll become a sharper, more confident decision-maker, able to spot manipulation and steer your behavior intentionally. Expect richer relationships rooted in authenticity and trust, a stronger ability to motivate others ethically, and sharper defenses against unfair persuasion in sales, marketing, politics, or daily life. Mastering these principles means you’ll stop falling for mindless compliance, take command of your automatic responses, and unleash the full power of conscious influence—improving negotiation, leadership, self-control, and even resilience in stressful settings.
Key Insights from This Book
Explore the most important ideas and learn how to apply them in your life.
Why Your Brain Loves Shortcuts but Sometimes Trips: Decoding the Click-Whirr Response
How the Power of Reciprocity Can Bend Your Will—Even When You Didn't Ask for the Favor
Why Saying Yes Once Makes You Say Yes Again—Harnessing the Commitment and Consistency Trap
Beware the Herd: How Social Proof Shapes Truths and Myths—Even in Emergencies
The Rejection-Then-Retreat Tactic: Why Saying No Once Makes You Say Yes Next
Why Escalating Effort and Public Promises Harden Identity—The Magic of Written, Public, and Effortful Commitment
The Double-Edged Sword: Automatic Social Proof Drives Both Kindness and Tragedy
When Reason Goes Out the Window—The Danger of Consistency Traps
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