How to Persuade Stubborn Minds with Michael McQueen
Jun 3, 2024
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Award-winning speaker Michael McQueen discusses the concept of being 'mindstuck' and the importance of trust in persuasion. He shares insights on guiding children with aspiration, authenticity, and storytelling. Emphasizes the value of open-mindedness as a parent and the impact of encouragement and avoiding confrontational language.
Authenticity and vulnerability build trust for effective persuasion in conversations.
Self-deprecation can disarm resistance and create genuine dialogue for new ideas.
Engaging in synchronized activities fosters trust and receptivity to different viewpoints.
Deep dives
The Importance of Vulnerability and Authenticity in Building Trust
Building trust through authenticity and vulnerability is crucial in conversations. When individuals share true and authentic stories, oxytocin, the bonding hormone, is released, fostering trust. Being open about vulnerabilities and presenting authentic experiences can create connections and increase receptiveness to different viewpoints.
Effective Methods to Disarm Resistance Through Self-Deprecation
Presenting one's case with self-deprecation can disarm resistance. Sharing evidence that may not favor one's argument but displays honesty and openness can build trust and credibility. Acknowledging limitations or areas of uncertainty can create a space for genuine dialogue and receptivity to new ideas.
The Power of Synchronicity and Trust Building in Difficult Conversations
Engaging in synchronized activities like going for a walk can build trust and synchronize mental states. Matching body language or cadence through shared activities fosters oxytocin release, promoting trust and receptivity to differing perspectives. Such synchronized interactions create a platform for open, honest dialogue, leading to productive conversations.
Creating Psychological Safety Through Conversations
Establishing psychological safety in conversations, especially with children, is key to fostering a trusting environment. By changing the setting to a walk or drive, side by side rather than confrontational, tough conversations can be initiated. Encouraging vulnerability and humor can also disarm and create an open space for communication. Recognizing the need for trust and reliability during the teenage years to navigate independence and peer influence is crucial for building resilient relationships.
Effective Communication and Persuasion Strategies with Children
Empowering children through aspirational language by acknowledging and highlighting their positive traits can guide their behavior positively. By focusing on what is admirable in them, children are encouraged to live up to these attributes. Asking open-ended questions, avoiding 'why' to prevent defensiveness, and inviting children to reflect on their actions can lead to more impactful conversations. Balancing persuasion with openness, vulnerability, and self-reflection can prevent manipulation and coercion, fostering healthy dialogue and understanding.
Michael McQueen is a multi-award winning speaker, change strategist, and bestselling author of 10 books who has helped top brands like Google, Toyota, and Mastercard navigate uncertainty. A regular commentator on TV and radio, he has spoken to over 500,000 people across 5 continents and shared the stage with figures like Bill Gates, Mel Robbins, and Steve Wozniak, earning induction into the Professional Speakers Hall of Fame.
Today, Michael McQueen and Larry Hagner discuss the concept of being "mindstuck" and how it affects our ability to change our minds easily. They explore the importance of building trust and creating a safe environment for effective persuasion, especially when dealing with children and teenagers. Michael also shares valuable insights on how to approach conversations with kids, emphasizing the power of aspiration, authenticity, and vulnerability in guiding their behavior.
The conversation delves into the significance of asking open-ended questions and avoiding confrontational language, such as starting questions with "why." Michael then highlights the impact of encouragement and storytelling in influencing children's decisions and behaviors. He emphasizes the value of being open-minded as a parent, acknowledging when children offer new perspectives and being willing to learn from them.
