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How to Influence Anyone (Ethically) Using 100-Year-Old Psychology Tricks

The Secret to Persuasion Is Older Than You Think

John Edwin
3 min readFeb 14, 2025

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Have you ever wondered why some people effortlessly persuade others while others struggle to make their voices heard?

The truth is, persuasion is not about manipulation—it is about understanding human behavior and using it to create win-win situations.

For over a century, psychologists and behavioral scientists have studied what makes people say yes. These timeless principles, used by leaders, marketers, and negotiators, can help you become more persuasive without being deceptive or unethical.

Ready to unlock these 100-year-old psychology tricks? Let’s dive in.

1. The Reciprocity Principle

The Rule:

People feel obligated to return favors.

A 1970s study by psychologist Robert Cialdini showed that when waiters gave customers a free mint, tips increased by 14 percent. When they gave two mints, tips increased by 23 percent.

In real life, giving first—whether it is advice, a compliment, or help—makes others more likely to return the favor.

How to Use It Ethically:

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John Edwin
John Edwin

Written by John Edwin

Prolific writer, public health specialist, and tech enthusiast with 12 books on Amazon. I craft stories and insights that inspire action and spark conversations

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