WHAT IS CONGRUENCE?

At its very simplest, you might think that congruence  means “say what you mean and mean what you say.” However, that definition has real limitations. Consider a conference session I attended. Brad, a consultant, stood at the front of a packed room, and shared stories...

It’s Not About You

Most of the time, people pursue a new idea because they can see how it will help them. Recognizing and internalizing this simple truth will help you expand your influence skills. Don’t just tell people why you think your idea is a good one. See the world from their...

Influencing Requires a Relationship

To generate a result that exceeds our limits, we need other people to join our cause. We use influence to get others on board with us. Many ways to influence others exist. Recall when someone influenced you to join their cause. What influenced you? Often the...

Reciprocity

Reciprocity is a strong social norm in most cultures. People tend to respond to positive actions with positive actions. In other words, when someone does something beneficial for us, we feel inclined to reciprocate and do something beneficial for them in return....