Influence

All communication is based on influence. Whenver we come in contact with each other, we change each other's behaviour, mood and decisions. We do this consciously and unconsciously. In the field of social psychology, there is a growing interest in the mental process behind influencing and being influenced. 

Did you know that a cold or a warm handshake can make a noticeable difference in the outcome of a job interview? Or that you find someone more sympathetic if they have a name that sounds similar to yours? Experiments in the field of influence often yield such surprising results. The more we learn, the more techniques we can develop to influence others. Markteers, sales people and teachers make good use of these breakthroughs.

Of course there is a fine line between influence and manipulation. Malchat regularly uses techniques to move people to certain choices or actions, but always explains what he did afterwards. He values a respectful treatment of his volunteers... even when he temporarily nudges their behaviour!