[This is part of the series: 31 Persuasion Tips That I Learned From Scott Adams]
Like it or not, gifts persuade people.
This is due in large part to the principle of reciprocity.
Someone does something kind for you – and what happens?
You immediately feel obligated to do something kind for them, don’t you?
Most people are, of course, clueless about this on a strategic level.
Be wary of those that report to you giving you nice things.
Their intentions might be harmless, but they might also be studying the psychology of persuasion and using it on you.
The problem is that this persuasion technique works, even if you know about it.
Not that I would ever do that. 😉
PERSUASION TIP 2: Humans are hardwired to reciprocate favors. If you want someone’s cooperation in the future, do something for that person today.
-Scott Adams, Win Bigly