How to Have a Good Day: Harness the Power of Behavioral Science to Transform Your Working Life

by Caroline Webb

MAKING THINGS HAPPEN When you next need help, support, or engagement from someone: Provide context. Give at least a brief reason for your request, to explain why it matters. Make it easy for them. • Work out what might prevent people from doing what you hope, and remove that barrier. (And because effort is a general barrier to action, make your desired option the “do nothing” option where you can.) • Make a concrete suggestion to “anchor” the discussion and reduce the amount of thought needed. (For numerical negotiations, try suggesting a range between your realistic desired outcome and an even better one.) • Provide visual cues that draw attention to the outcome you want. Bring the benefits to life. Don’t assume that the benefits of what you’re asking are obvious to others. Paint a picture that shows how it will help them personally (or causes they care about). Proactively address anything that might seem like a downside. Use social proof. Show how similar people have already done what you’re asking. If you have aspirations to engage a lot of people, first find and focus on the (sometimes hidden) influencers: “experts,” “hubs,” and “gatekeepers.” Get them involved. When your success requires full buy-in from other people, let them contribute in some way. Ask for people’s views, and then connect your idea or request to their own thoughts on the topic. Ask for advice before you ask for help. Leave room for people to come up with options or make some of their own choices. Gi...