In the realm of influence and persuasion, subtle techniques can often be more effective than direct commands. One such method involves the strategic use of ‘Weasel Words’ – phrases designed to gently guide a listener’s thoughts and actions without triggering resistance. This approach, inspired by the work of renowned hypnotist Milton Erickson, allows you to introduce suggestions indirectly, making them more readily accepted.
Erickson was known for his ability to guide individuals into a state of trance through carefully crafted language, rather than direct commands. Similarly, Weasel Words enable you to ‘weasel in’ a suggestion, bypassing the natural inclination to resist direct orders. For instance, instead of demanding someone ‘Consider your reasons,’ you might say, ‘I’m not entirely sure how well you can consider why you want to do this.’ This phrasing subtly prompts reflection without imposing a directive.
The power of Weasel Words lies in their ability to engage the listener’s mind without creating a point of contention. The listener, in attempting to decipher the meaning, inadvertently acts upon the embedded suggestion. To effectively employ these phrases, begin by identifying your desired outcome. If you aim to create relaxation, you might say, ‘A friend once mentioned it’s entirely possible to simply relax.’ This statement introduces the idea of relaxation without directly instructing the listener to relax.
In a sales context, you could use a phrase like, ‘I wonder if now is the ideal time for you to acquire this computer.’ The possibilities are vast. By experimenting with different constructions, you can tailor Weasel Words to suit various situations and objectives.
Here are several examples of Weasel Words to get you started:
* After you come to…
* After you’ve…
* As a whole new way of thinking opens up…
* All that really matters…
* All that’s really important…
* Allowing yourself to just naturally…
* And as that occurs, you really can’t help but notice…
* And I’d like to have you discover…
* And then, now you’ll discover…
* And you can be pleased…
* And you can really use it…
* And you can wonder…
* And you will be surprised at…
* Give yourself the opportunity to see if…
* I wonder if you’ll be pleased to notice…
* I wonder if you’ll be reminded…
* I wonder if you’ll be surprised to discover that…
* In all probability…
* If you could…
* It is easy, isn’t it…
* Perhaps you wouldn’t mind noticing…
* So now’s the time…