Part of the challenge of influencing change is getting people to step out of their day-to-day routines to take some action, instead of saying, “I’ll just do it later.”
One way to encourage people to take action now is to generate scarcity. When people perceive that an opportunity is scarce, it creates demand for that opportunity.
Usually you see this influence tactic in sales campaigns, like “limited time only” offers and early bird discounts.
The same principle can be used to create demand for your change initiative. Consider the following examples:
- Limit volunteer opportunities, like teams or training, to X number of people.
- Influence people to show up to meetings on time by having X fewer chairs than attendees.
- Set an end date for award eligibility.
- Offer recognition to the first X people who take the desired action.
Be creative! Find a way to generate scarcity and create demand for change.
How might you generate scarcity?
Read more of the 99 Ways to Influence Change.