(159 words, 37-second read)
If you’re going to persuade someone, you have to be certain about your position. Right?
Yes, but: Certainty is the play. IF the person you are writing to is open to being persuaded. But uncertainty might give you the persuasive edge you need if the person is unwilling to consider your point.
- “This might not be the best way to attack this challenge, but I think we should move in this direction.”
Why it works: Expressing uncertainty signals that you are willing to consider other options. The power of reciprocity usually encourages a person to consider other options, even when they’re certain – especially when they’re certain.
Apply it: Here are some words to use the principle of uncertainty in the wild:
- Usually
- Might
- Think
- Should
Bonus tip: Framing a certain statement as a question should work.
Deep dive: If you’d like to learn more about this strategy and others like it, check out Jonah Berger’s book, Magic Words.
Fun fact: The first draft of this was 177 words.