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Persuasion: Difference Between Persuasion and Manipulation

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Learn the Difference Between Persuasion and Manipulation

Did you know that there really is a difference between persuasion and manipulation?

People often think that they are persuading when in fact they are actually manipulating. There is a very real difference. Although manipulation is a type of persuasion it is only temporary and it is not a lasting agreement.

What's The Difference

The American Heritage Dictionary definition of manipulation, "Shrewd or devious management, especially for one's own advantage" is most fitting when discussing the difference between persuasion and manipulation.

Wikipedia describes persuasion as form of social influence.

In manipulation the only person who benefits long term is the manipulator.

Now look at the definition of the word persuade:"to induce to undertake a course of action or embrace a point of view by means of argument, reasoning, or entreaty."

With persuasion, there is the opportunity for two people to come together on an opinion that is mutually beneficial.

Manipulation Does Not Work in The Long Run

Manipulation does not work in the long run because there can be no ongoing trust or relationship with the manipulator.

Deceptions are ultimately exposed and incongruence is observed and reconciled. Many times legal action of one form or another results. So the manipulators must find another target where word of mouth reputation won't catch up or be exposed at such a high level they lose all creditability.

Unfortunately, many people go on to be manipulated again because the perceived value of what they may receive is higher than the pain of being manipulated. Ultimately the pattern continues, not because they don't recognize the manipulator, but because the risk/potential reward ratio is high enough to outweigh critical thinking on the issue.

The Definable Element

Intent is the only clearly definable element that separates manipulation from persuasion.

Manipulation is inwardly focused on the outcome for the person doing the manipulation.

Persuasion is externally focused on developing a win-win outcome where everyone's needs are met.

Manipulation is nearly always inappropriate in any situation, particularly in business and sales situations. If you want to earn a significant income and have a long career you'll always avoid manipulation.

Remember that short-term success will never lead to long-term success when it comes to influencing people. The world is too small. Manipulators are always discovered.

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DaveLakhani

Dave Lakhani is the President of Bold Approach, Inc., the nation's first Business Acceleration Strategy firm. A business acceleration strategy firm is... more »

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