Ask, don't tell

Ask more questions and make fewer statements. People are often reluctant to follow someone's lead, but they're more likely to follow the path they set out for themselves.

For example, when trying to get their team to go along with a new initiative, ineffective persuaders push it on people in the form of a declaration. Effective persuaders start by asking questions, visiting with stakeholders, getting their perspectives, and engaging them involved in the planning process.