Category Archive: Influence

7 Ways Manipulators Get What They Want

We passively accept the manipulative lies advertisers use to get our money. “Open a Coke, open happiness.” “Wheaties, breakfast of champions.” “All Natural … All Burger” Carl’s Jr. with a naked woman eating… Continue reading

Influence is Easy – Just Drop a Few Hints

A bear demolished our bird feeders. Plastic tubes and suet cages offer little resistance. Sunflower seeds and suet are easy prey. My wife ordered new tubes and safely stored all the metal parts… Continue reading

The 4 Unbreakable Rules of Giving Advice that People Actually Respect

Most advice-givers should be avoided. You’re good at telling people what you think. But you’re confused if you think giving advice is the same as telling people what you think. Skillful advice-givers accelerate… Continue reading

How to be a Leader People Like – Without being Needy

Leaders who need to be liked are lawn chairs blown in hurricanes. Leaders who don’t care if they’re liked are jerk-holes. We resist leaders we don’t like – but if we like each… Continue reading

An Actionable Approach to Tough Issues Even Timid Leaders can Employ

The worst agonies of leadership are self-inflicted. Poor results and toxic environments are often the result of misplaced tolerance. What happens when you avoid tough issues: #1. Unintentional affirmation of negative behaviors. Silent… Continue reading

How the Republican Committee Ticked Me Off – But the Issue wasn’t Them

Some conversations invigorate – others exasperate. The difference is aspiration, values, and talent. Years ago, the Republican Committee* asked, “If we put you forward for this elected office, what will you do for… Continue reading