Personal Persuasion - Ten Common Persuasive Techniques That You Should Avoid

Let's see how many of these methods are currently in your bag of tricks.

1. Criticizing - Do you actually think that by pointing out what people are doing wrong, you'll make them want your version of right? You will more likely get defensiveness, not cooperation, if you practice this form of persuasion.

2. Complaining - Complaining is another form of criticism, made worse because of its constant repetition. Complainers continually point out what others are doing wrong, in an attempt to make people see things their way and do things for them. Eventually, people turn a deaf ear to complainers, who tend to expect others to change without bothering to change themselves.

3. Condemning - What is your reaction to another person's censure, or condemnation? Defensiveness and martyrdom are the usual reactions. In one, people react with defensive explanations and try to justify their actions. In the other, people accept the title of sinner and decide that they might as well live up to your expectations. In either case, persuasion is unlikely.