How to get people to do what you want

Does that make me sound like a horrible person? Probably. But was the blog title being used as a bit of clickbait? Perhaps. ;)

Recently, I asked 33 people to do something for me, while sharing barely any details. Within 72 hours, 32 of the 33 agreed without question. 

That got me thinking, "Why did they so willingly agree without knowing much about what I wanted from them?"

Well let's think about this for a moment. They only got two pieces of information: 1) can I take three photos of you? and 2) it will take an hour of your time.

Again, 32 of 33 said yes. (I asked one additional person to fill spot 33 and they said yes immediately as well.)

Once 33 said yes, I shared more information: this is part of a personal photography project, the shoots will happen in their homes, I want them to look real (not dressed up, made up, etc.), the photos will be shared on Instagram this spring, and yes, they will totally get the final hi-res photos emailed to you. Oh, and I sent them a list of 52 one-hour times I'm available - they have to pick one each.

And they still wanted to do this. After asking for so much of them all 33 people are still doing what I want. And here's why I believe they are doing what I asked:

1. I create genuine, real, sincere relationships with people. I don't do this so people will do things for me. I do it because I really enjoy people. And I like having relationships with them.
2. People trust me. I don't lie (except when I'm trying to get out of a speeding ticket). Our relationship means as much to them as it does to me. They know I'm not taking advantage of them or asking for something that would make them feel uncomfortable.
3. An hour isn't much. I didn't ask for 6 hours. Or for money. Or to help me move. (No one wants to help people move.)
4. They are getting something out of it. (People love creative, high-quality photos of themselves.)

So if you want something from someone, ask yourself these two questions: 1) what are they getting out of it? and 2) what's your relationship like?

Happy Friday!
​Autumn