Weapons of influence are very powerful techniques which are widely used in many aspects of life, from business to winning an ice cream. By knowing these weapons you can protect yourself from getting easily influenced by others or you can also use this for your favor.

- Scarcity

Ever had a feeling which rushed you to buy something because the number of the item was rapidly dropping?With other words it is a rapidly diminishing supply of what you want. Which makes you want to get it fast.

- Commitment of Consistency

There was a survey where 2 groups were collecting donations from 2 villages. One group went straight for the question "Do you want to donate for cancer victims?" 30% of the village donated. But the other group went the first day to give away cancer supporter pins to villagers which the villagers happily accepted. The other day they went for the donations. The second team got totally bigger donation than the first team. Reason is because in the second village they made the people think that they are supporters which made them donate. Now when want to pursue someone from doing something, try changing his mind first!

- Liking the Friendly Thief

This can be explained very simply. The con-artists (which means confident-artists) work so that they get: first, friendly with the people (which gives the good expression and feel of trust) and then uses it beneficially to con them. So, be careful when somebody is trying to be too friendly, buying you drinks, giving you tips on investing etc. Be independent! You never know what other people are planning.

- Reciprocity

Ever felt you need to help somebody because he did a small deed for you? Usually they introduce you to somebody who you were going to meet anyway but in the end you feel that he helped you. With simple words, you do a small deed for somebody for example buy him candies, later on he will have the feeling that he needs to help you.

- Social proof

Humans tend to do what other humans are doing. I am sure you had these feelings, like you are doing something and don't even know why you are doing that. Humans trust humans and follow their steps.

- Authority

This is a quite simple one. With enough authority, it doesn't matter if its true or acted you can do anything without having problems...

- Surprise

People act really fast sometimes, often without realizing or thinking about it. There was a test done and people tried to get in the middle of a line of the coffee machine. The first group went and asked if they can stand in front of them and they all got negative answers. But the other group gave a reason, for example "can i stand in front of you because i need to get coffee" its very interesting that they let them go faster. Just give people a reason and you will be stunned how much they listen to you. "Because"

- Contrast

If you see something which is very different from other things you will be much more interested in it. Its called the contrast and a natural thing which is now used for influencing people.

Try to recognize them in the world and don't be influenced by them!

My name is HyunSoung Kim, i am student in International Baccalaureate (IB). When i grow up i will be an actor and positive psychologist. If you have any problems or questions about your life, future and frustrations please feel free to ask me by sending a e-mail to kim_h_soung(at)hotmail.com.