Some of the influence tactics in this list should be used sparingly and with caution. In some situations, they can be effective! One of those is ridicule.
You should only taunt someone you know well and in good humor. The last thing you want to do is hurt someone’s feelings or offend him by striking a nerve, so ridicule coworkers with caution. But, insinuating that your colleague doesn’t want to try something because he is a wimp, or is not smart enough, or whatever he would want to prove wrong might spring him into action.
Sure, ridicule is not going to make it on the list of most ethical influence tactics. If you use it all the time you will become a bully or a clown. But occasional friendly teasing is also one way to nudge someone or to correct behavior.
(Originally listed in Everyday Influence Tactics Not Found in Leadership Books.)
Read more of the 99 Ways to Influence Change.
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