The Principles of Achieving Influence - Article Example

The rule of reciprocity as outlined by Cialdini is a very basic requirement in the normal day to day life of each person. Reciprocity simply implies that every person appreciates when they feel that all their work is being appreciated and a reward is guaranteed (1993). The act of a recipient repaying what is offered always gives an impression of appreciation. The principle can be used by a leader in an exploitative manner when they tend to offer unequal exchanges to the favors that they owe others.

A leader can find it hard to abide by the binding rules when they find it difficult to choose whom they wish to reciprocate the favors too. A leader should be able to treat all those who are under their power equally. That way, they will be able to get the equal measure of influence they wish to achieve in the different organizations that they deal with. Personally, I have seen my supervisor at work earn a lot of respect as he commands people for the effort that they put toward the company’s success.

Another principle that I find very important in achieving influence, is consistency and commitment. People will tend to honor and abide by the commitments that they make, especially when they are made willingly. When a leader becomes consistent in what they say and do, the definitely do not miss the chance of influencing others. These are noted from the prior honoring of such commitments and therefore standing out as an evidence of consistency. Even though this is a very important aspect, it can be used by some people in an exploitative manner to get favors which in return are never honored.

A person can be consistent in a first instance with people so as to gain confidence in them, but having an intention of changing this after a while. Being consistent in earlier stages tends to eliminate the need for the same process after confidence has been achieved. They end up acting in a contrary manner which is to heir own interest.