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Enclaria: Influence Change at Work

Equipping individuals and teams to influence organizational change

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99 Ways to Influence Change, #4: Say “please”

Never underestimate what people will do if you just ask nicely!

First of all, you have to ask.  Forget all the complicated programs, messages and incentives for a minute.  What would happen if you simply asked people to take part in the new activity, or to adjust their behavior?  Sometimes we think we need to add all the fancy stuff when really all we need to do is ask the question.

Also, remember your manners.  Please remember your manners.  “Please” removes the demanding attitude, and replaces it with respect.  One word changes a statement from an expectation to a personal request.  Adding”please” with emphasis may also increase the sense of urgency.

Say “please.”  (Please.) It is the magic word, after all.  Couldn’t your change initiative use a little magic?

Read more of the 99 Ways to Influence Change.

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