Practical Applications for Every Day
The Challenge: Getting busy people to read and respond to your emails.
1. Subject Line (Make it irresistible):
❌ Bad: "Update"
✅ Good: "Action needed: Project approval deadline Friday"
✅ Better: "Quick question - 2 min of your time?"
2. Opening (Grab attention):
❌ Bad: "Dear Sir/Madam, I hope this email finds you well..."
✅ Good: "Quick update: We're 80% done with the project you approved last month."
3. Body (Be brief and clear):
• One main point per email
• Use bullet points (easier to read)
• Bold key information
• Keep it under 150 words if possible
4. Closing (Clear call to action):
❌ Bad: "Let me know your thoughts."
✅ Good: "Please reply with 'Approved' or your suggested changes by Friday 5 PM."
BEFORE (Weak):
"Subject: Project
Hi, I wanted to discuss the new project with you. There are many things we need to talk about. Let me know when you're free. Thanks."
AFTER (Persuasive):
"Subject: New project approval needed - 2 min read
Hi Rahul,
Quick update: The client wants to start the digital marketing project we discussed.
Key points:
• Revenue potential: ₹30 lakhs
• Timeline: 3 months
• Resources needed: 2 team members
Action needed: Please approve by Thursday so we can start Monday.
Reply 'Yes' to approve or call me if you have questions.
Thanks!"
The Challenge: Getting your ideas heard and approved in meetings.
Before the Meeting:
✓ Share agenda in advance
✓ Pre-sell your idea to key stakeholders one-on-one
✓ Prepare visuals (people remember what they see)
During the Meeting:
✓ Speak early: Don't wait until end (people tune out)
✓ Use "we" language: "We could achieve..." not "I think..."
✓ Address concerns proactively: "You might wonder about cost. Here's how we stay in budget..."
✓ Acknowledge others: "Building on Priya's point..."
✓ End with action: "So our next step is... Can we agree?"
The Challenge: Persuading your boss, colleague, or client in personal discussions.
1. Set the Context (30 seconds):
"I wanted to discuss the upcoming project timeline with you. Do you have 5 minutes?"
2. State Your Request Clearly:
"I'd like to propose extending the deadline by one week."
3. Explain the Benefits (for them):
"This will ensure higher quality, reduce errors, and avoid the costly rework we experienced last time."
4. Address Concerns:
"I know the client wants it soon. I've already checked, and they're fine with the new date."
5. Make it Easy to Say Yes:
"I've drafted an email to the client. All you need to do is review and forward it."
The Challenge: Getting cooperation from people who don't report to you.
Strategy 1: Build Reciprocity Bank:
Help them first with their challenges. When you need help, they'll return the favor.
Strategy 2: Appeal to Shared Goals:
"We both want this project to succeed. If we collaborate on this..."
Strategy 3: Make Them Look Good:
"Your expertise in this area would be invaluable. Could you guide us?"
Strategy 4: Use Social Proof:
"The design team has already agreed to support this approach..."