Change Signal Are You Influencing Without Knowing It? Vanessa Bohns
12 snips
Dec 3, 2025 
In a captivating discussion, Vanessa Bohns, a professor at Cornell University and author of 'You Have More Influence Than You Think,' delves into the subtle art of social influence. She reveals that our impact often goes unnoticed, with small actions like a side comment holding more weight than assumed. Social proof, she argues, trumps logical reasoning in influencing behavior. Bohns advises being present and direct in communication, allowing people to say no comfortably, ensuring their agreement is genuine. This conversation reshapes how we view our everyday influence.
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Influence Is Delayed And Cumulative
- Influence often happens slowly, cumulatively, and not in the moment you expect.
- A comment today can change behavior a week later without immediate visible effect.
Be Present In Person
- Be physically present when you want to persuade people because in-person presence increases influence.
- Prioritize face-to-face interactions over virtual methods for important asks.
Target The Swing Voters
- Target people on the margins who can swing rather than the staunchly opposed.
- Shift marginal people and you can achieve meaningful change quickly.
