Who knew linguistics was such a hotbed of activity?
I have an image of professors in tweed giving their intellectual enemies fierce tongue lashings.
And what is it about the study of language that could have these normally peaceful types (poets, writers) soaked in blood?
Language is powerful - derisive and divisive at the same time that it is full of potential and beauty.
Keeping in mind the thought, 'The pen is mightier than the sword', I'd like to examine the eight most counterproductive words as applied to persuasion.
And this goes for any persuasion, especially when dealing with the affluent because you need the most consistency and confidence in your language to influence this elite group of individuals.
Every single one of these words has an exception, and feel free to explore and discover the exceptions and use them to your advantage.
Be very, very cautious, especially if you're a beginner with these skills. In general, you should ignore these words, stay away from them, don't use them at all. They will absolutely backfire.
Understanding the importance of rapport is key. After that, gaining and keeping rapport can be quite tricky.
Persuasion is weak at first and then as you learn to navigate your way through it, it becomes quite magnetic. When working with an affluent prospect or client, what your magnetic persuasion skills are really telling them are: 'I am like you'.
Stumbles and blunders in language such as these eight words can stop the rapport from flowing. They cut it off at the knees, so to speak, and cast doubt upon you. That's why I call them 'dangerous'.
BUT.
Whatever you say before the word 'but' is automatically canceled out.
"I wanted to buy you a present, but. . ." Yeah. I'm not getting a present, am I?
"Your product seems to fit my needs, but. . ." I'm not going to buy it.
After 'but' rears its head, everything said prior, is extinguished.
TRY.
Trying always presupposes failing. Either you're going to do it, or you're not going to do it. There is no such thing as 'try'.
I actually love the word 'try' and I use it all the time though until you're more advanced in persuasion, 'try' not to use it at all.
IF.
'If' is a weak word similar to 'try'. It presupposes that you "might not" do as you say.
"If you are interested. . ."
Doesn't sound too confident, too reassuring, too convincing, does it?
'If' isn't supportive. It is weak and lacks intention. It gives people a way out. 'If' gives you a way out.
MIGHT.
Another of our wishy-washy weak words is 'might'.
"I might buy your product." Give me an answer!!!
It just takes away all the personal power. Watch your personal power, enhance your power every single time you can. Speak with authority and you will be respected by the affluent AND rewarded by them.
