The Jedi Mind Trick is real. Use it to get results.
by blogrdocAbstract
This post provides a rigorous outline for successfully executing the Jedi Mind Trick. What I really mean here is effectively using direct and clear communication to get results.
I don’t like telling people what to do. As a manufacturing process engineer, however, my ability to give clear direction and get results is part of the job. In recent months, I have really discovered the power of the JMT. Yes… all I’m really talking about here is direct communication. All too often, communication is given by innuendo or suggestion. Steve Pavilina blogs here about being direct. There is something very disarming about direct communication and for the most part, it gets results.
To use the Jedi mind trick successfully, first consider your relationship with the person you are working with. Is it that person’s role to support your needs? (notice I said ’support’ not ‘serve‘) If so, your chances for success have just multiplied a few fold. People who fall in this category are obviously:
* direct reports
* any service person (whether in person or over the phone)
* sales people
* hotel or restaurant attendants
Have a clear idea of what you want and why you want it. Then finally: say it directly and maintain eye contact. Be serious. No apologetic tone. If necessary, preface with ‘Can you please …’.
In order for this to really work, you must have your mind completely made up with zero doubt. Once you convince yourself first completely, you’re ability to convince others will improve. You must have a clear sense of purpose and be fully ready to defend your request without any hesitation. If questioned, succinctly state your case, rattling off as many argument points as you can. Use the appropriate body language, facial expressions and words to demonstrate that you need their help and that their personal performance in their role is directly related on their ability to help you.
I do this on a daily basis when I give direction to production operators. I am not their boss, and it is not easy to direct people who do not report to you. Yes there are many times, perhaps most times, where you cannot satisfy these criteria for successful JMT execution. But, in the few cases that these criteria are met, there is no reason to miss your opportunity to get results from other people’s help. Not ‘because you can’ or to get a ‘power trip’ - but because that’s the way the system works most effectively.
The reality is that many workers are starved for direct communication and instruction. And this is because leadership is often scarce, but that topic that is for another blog post :)
Happy Valentines Day, all.
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3 Responses to “The Jedi Mind Trick is real. Use it to get results.”
By Alik on Feb 15, 2008 | Reply
Good rundown and very useful. Now I know this trick has a name :)! Looking forward to read scarce leadership post.