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Deepak Gupta my SUCCESS! my CHOICE
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persuasion may neither be as good nor may provide you the same level of satisfaction that
results through influenced-inspiration do.”
Ron continued, “Your definition of influence was right, but only partially. Although most
will sign up for it and this is how they practice it too – we make people do what we want them
to do. And they do it because of our power – power of hierarchy, power of age and experience,
power of perceived knowledge superiority or power of emotional blackmail. Key word being
‘power’; we use our power to make them do it through persuasion NOT Influence.”
“What your definition missed is just one word, but that one word turns the concept of
Influence on its head!”
“True and meaningful influence that unleashes action and delivers extraordinary results
comes not from ‘getting people to do what you want them to do’, but from ‘getting people
WANT to do what you want them to do’.”
Ron paused and saw Dan’s expressions transform from ‘I-know-it’ to ‘passionate-quest’ at
the simplicity, yet potential for enormous energy this small change in definition could release.
He smiled and continued, “it inspires and excites people to listen, understand and follow.
Every great leader, be it India’s Gandhi, China’s Mao, Africa’s Mandela, or America’s King,
understood this and were able to influence millions to create revolutions!”
“And effective communication is the only means to true Influence.” Ron concluded and
smiled again.