676: How to Change People’s Minds, with Michael McQueen

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Apr 15, 2024

Michael McQueen is a bestselling author and international keynote speaker renowned for his expertise in navigating change. In this lively discussion, he unpacks the complexities of influencing entrenched beliefs, emphasizing the importance of addressing the instinctive mind first. Michael highlights the pivotal role of listening and asks transformative questions that encourage open dialogue. He also discusses overcoming the fear of loss in persuasion, presenting change as a growth opportunity while preserving existing beliefs. Prepare to shift your perspective!

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INSIGHT

Convincing vs. Changing

People often mistake agreement under pressure for genuine change.
True change requires agency and a sense of control, or it won't last.

INSIGHT

Feeling Right vs. Being Right

Presenting more facts doesn't guarantee changed minds.
The human mind prioritizes feeling right over being right, clinging to certainty for safety.

INSIGHT

Two Minds

We have two minds: an inquiring mind (logical) and an instinctive mind (emotional).
Persuasion often mistakenly targets the inquiring mind, but the instinctive mind drives most decisions.

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Michael McQueen: Mindstuck Michael McQueen has spent the past two decades helping organizations and leaders win the battle for relevance. He specializes in helping clients navigate uncertainty and stay one step ahead of change. Michael is a bestselling author of nine books and a familiar face on the international conference circuit, having shared the stage with the likes of Bill Gates, Dr. John C. Maxwell, and Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak. Having formerly been named Australia’s Keynote Speaker of the Year, he has been inducted into the Professional Speakers Hall of Fame. He is the author of Mindstuck: Mastering the Art of Changing Minds*. There’s a lot of evidence that our minds would rather feel right than be right. How then, do you influence someone when they are really convinced of their position? In this conversation, Michael and I discuss the initial steps that help in changing people’s minds. Key Points Our tendency is to convince to the inquiring mind, but we’ll do better if we speak to the instinctive mind first. Help others lessen loss and maintain dignity by preserving titles, language, and symbols in things that are new. Instead of trying to make an argument, ask a question that allows the other person to listen to themselves. Ask questions that clarify points of resistance or misunderstanding. Speak like you’re right, listen like you’re wrong. Resources Mentioned Mindstuck: Mastering the Art of Changing Minds* by Michael McQueen Interview Notes Download my interview notes in PDF format (free membership required). Related Episodes The Way to Influence Executives, with Nancy Duarte (episode 450) Four Habits That Derail Listening, with Oscar Trimboli (episode 500) Three Practices for Thriving in Negotiations, with William Ury (episode 669) Discover More Activate your free membership for full access to the entire library of interviews since 2011, searchable by topic. To accelerate your learning, uncover more inside Coaching for Leaders Plus.