15 May 2013

Persuading/Influencing another

What does it mean to persuade somebody?  Or to influence somebody?

When should we want to influence or persuade another person?  Or to leave that person to make up his own choices without any input from us?

Nesrin Saab spoke at an ACS Project Management SIG tonight.  She explained the following definitions:
  • Influencing is getting others to agree with what you want them to agree to.  It is using your behaviour to change the behaviour of somebody else.  Influencing is based on trust.
  • Negotiation is when you come to an agreement in a manner of setting or raising a price.  It is not based on behaviour.  It is coming to the right terms in the agreement by lowering or raising the expectations.
  • Persuading is like influencing, but it is a one-time effect.  A change in behaviour is not the outcome.  It is just getting somebody to agree with you at the instance of your persuading them.
  • Manipulation is different from influence, as manipulation is based on deception rather than trust.
Given these definitions, what should we do about our beliefs?  Should we use them to persuade another?  Or to influence another?  Or just to leave people to believe whatever they want?  Why?

What do you think?
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2 comments:

  1. La Vista Church of ChristMay 17, 2013 at 9:20 AM

    Christianity is not blind following, but a reasoned decision.

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  2. 1 Peter 3:15-16May 19, 2013 at 8:31 AM

    But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.

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