Using Psychology to your Advantage Tricks and Techniques Source: imgur

15 techniques and tricks Part of being able to “read” both body language and cues is to be able to use them to your advantage and express and/or hide what your true intentions are.

1. In a group of people, when everyone starts to laugh, people will instinctively look at the person they feel closest to – or want to feel closest to.

2. Chew gum or have a snack if you are doing something that makes you nervous. It tricks the primal part of your brain – you can’t be in danger because you are eating.

If someone is angry at you and you stay calm, they’ll probably get angrier. If you smile, they’ll lose it. Bonus – they feel awful later.

4. If you ask a question and don’t get a complete answer, be quiet and maintain eye contact. The other person will keep talking (assuming the answer was not adequate).

5. Practicing emotional expressions can cause the emotion to be real: if you want to feel happy, smile as wide as you can.

6. Don’t say or write “I think” or “I believe” – especially on college applications. It is implied and can sound like a lack of confidence in the statement.

7. Interviewing tip: imagine you are old friends – change their perception of you – you will both be more comfortable – the ease will be infectious.

8. Be excited and happy when you see someone 8. Be excited and happy when you see someone. The next time they see you, they’ll probably be a lot happier and excited. (Dogs do this to us!)

People are more likely to agree to do a small favor if they refuse one or two larger ones first. This is a sales/ telemarketing tactic.

The physical effects of stress* and exhilaration are the same. Change the way you see a threat as a challenge. (* Not the same as fear!)

Brilliance and confidence look the same to most people. If you seem like you know what you’re doing or saying, people will believe it.

12. Mirrors behind a counter help the salesperson; especially in customer service. Customers do not like to see themselves being rude or a being a jerk – so they will be nicer.

If you are in a group and know you are going to get a verbal beat down – sit next to the person who is going to attack you. They are counting on the “pack mentality” when they reprimand you. They will lose that feeling (pack mentality can make them seem safe) and it will lessen the attack and/or the meanness.

Dating advice: On the first date, take them somewhere exciting Dating advice: On the first date, take them somewhere exciting* – they will associate you with that thrilling feeling. (* rollercoaster, haunted house, scary movie)

When you first meet someone, try to notice their eye color – it will increase the eye contact between you and they will like you more. First impressions count!