There I was, standing in line at the coffee shop, when I overheard two people chatting about how difficult it is to influence others. “People are stubborn,” one of them said. And I couldn’t help but smile to myself, thinking of all the subtle tricks that actually work—techniques I’ve used myself or watched others use masterfully to make everyday interactions a bit smoother.
Psychology isn’t just for therapists or researchers. Once you know how the human mind works, you can use these insights to your advantage—whether it’s persuading someone, boosting your confidence, or simply getting out of an awkward situation. The best part? These tricks are surprisingly easy to implement.
In this post, I’ll walk you through seven psychology tricks that actually work, and you can start using them right away. Whether you want to build stronger relationships, influence a decision, or feel more in control of a situation, these strategies can give you an edge in almost any interaction.
1. The Power of the Pause: Use Silence to Your Advantage
Let’s start with a trick that feels so counterintuitive it’s almost like magic. Imagine you’re in a negotiation or a debate. Your natural instinct is probably to keep talking, to fill every awkward pause with words. But here’s a trick: silence is your friend.
In fact, I learned this the hard way during a negotiation for a freelance project. After I made my case for a higher rate, there was this long, uncomfortable pause. My gut reaction was to start explaining again or even backpedal. But instead, I kept quiet.
Guess what? After a few more seconds of silence, the other party caved in. They agreed to my rate, and I walked away feeling victorious.
Why it works: Silence creates pressure. Most people hate awkward pauses, and they’ll fill the space with words—often by giving you more information or even agreeing with your point.
Try this: The next time you’re in a tense conversation or negotiation, present your argument or request, then say nothing. The silence will work for you.
2. Mirror, Mirror: Reflect Body Language to Build Rapport
It’s no secret that we like people who are like us. One of the easiest ways to make someone feel more comfortable and connected with you is to subtly mirror their body language.
I first stumbled upon this trick while attending a networking event. I noticed that when I mirrored the posture or gestures of the person I was talking to—like crossing my legs if they crossed theirs, or nodding slightly when they nodded—our conversations seemed to flow better. They warmed up to me faster.
Why it works: Mirroring creates an unconscious bond. When people see their own behavior reflected back at them, they instinctively feel like you’re on the same wavelength, which fosters trust and rapport.
Try this: The next time you’re in a meeting or casual conversation, try mirroring the other person’s body language (without overdoing it). You’ll be surprised at how quickly they start to feel more comfortable around you.
3. The Foot-in-the-Door Technique: Start Small to Go Big
Here’s a psychological trick I’ve used more times than I can count: the foot-in-the-door technique. It’s a strategy where you start with a small request, something that’s easy for the other person to agree to, and then follow it up with a bigger ask.
I once used this trick when I was working on a collaborative project. I asked a colleague to review just one slide of my presentation. After they said yes (which felt like no big deal), I followed up with, “Since you’re already familiar with it, would you mind looking over the entire deck?”
They agreed, and I got the full review I was hoping for.
Why it works: When someone agrees to a small request, they’re more likely to agree to a bigger one because they want to stay consistent with their initial commitment.
Try this: If you have a big favor to ask, start with something smaller and easier to agree to. Once they’ve said yes to the first request, your chances of getting them to agree to the second one increase.
4. The Power of Phrasing: Use the Word “Because”
There’s an old study by psychologist Ellen Langer that highlights the power of the word “because.” In the study, people waiting in line to use a copier were more likely to let someone cut in front of them if that person gave a reason—any reason.
For example, saying, “Can I cut in line because I need to make copies?” worked almost as well as a more compelling reason like, “Can I cut in line because I’m in a rush?”
I’ve used this trick countless times, especially in work situations. “Can you help me with this project because we need to finish it by the end of the day?” or “Can you send that report over because it’s important to the team?”
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Why it works: The word “because” triggers automatic compliance. People are more likely to agree to requests when they’re given a reason, even if that reason isn’t particularly strong.
Try this: The next time you ask for something, throw in the word “because” followed by a reason, no matter how small. You’ll notice people are more likely to agree.
5. The Reciprocity Rule: Give a Little, Get a Lot
Here’s a simple yet powerful trick: if you do something nice for someone, they’ll feel obligated to return the favor.
I’ve used this in everything from client meetings to everyday interactions. Once, during a pitch meeting, I handed out detailed, well-researched reports to everyone at the table, even though I wasn’t required to. It wasn’t a big gesture, but it set the tone.
Afterward, I noticed they were more willing to listen to my ideas and proposals, and it made the entire meeting flow smoothly.
Why it works: The principle of reciprocity is deeply ingrained in human psychology. When someone does something for us, we feel a natural obligation to return the favor.
Try this: The next time you need something from someone, do something small for them first. It could be as simple as offering a compliment, a piece of helpful information, or a thoughtful gesture. You’ll likely find them more open to helping you in return.
6. Name-Dropping (But Not How You Think)
Okay, I know what you’re thinking: name-dropping is tacky. But there’s a more subtle version of name-dropping that actually works wonders for building connection: use the person’s name in conversation.
Dale Carnegie, in his classic book How to Win Friends and Influence People, said, “A person’s name is to that person the sweetest sound in any language.”
Whenever I’m in a meeting or conversation, I make an effort to use the person’s name at least once or twice. It’s amazing how such a small thing can make the interaction feel more personal and warm.
Why it works: Using someone’s name grabs their attention and makes them feel recognized and valued. It also makes the conversation feel more personal.
Try this: The next time you’re having a conversation with someone, sprinkle their name in naturally. You’ll notice a shift in how they respond to you.
7. Anchoring: Set the Tone with the First Number
Anchoring is one of the most fascinating psychological tricks, especially when it comes to negotiations or decision-making. The idea is simple: the first piece of information someone hears (usually a number) serves as an anchor, and everything else is judged relative to that anchor.
I’ve used this in salary negotiations, project pricing, and even when bartering for goods. When I set the initial number, it becomes the reference point, and everything after that seems more reasonable in comparison.
For example, if you’re negotiating a salary and you throw out a high number first, it anchors the conversation around that figure. Even if you settle for less, the final number will likely be higher than if the initial anchor had been lower.
Why it works: Anchoring influences how people perceive value. The first number or piece of information sets the tone for everything that follows.
Try this: The next time you’re negotiating or making a request, be the first to throw out a number. It gives you more control over how the rest of the conversation will unfold.
Conclusion: Start Using These Tricks Today
You don’t need a psychology degree to start using these tricks. Whether you’re in a professional setting, navigating relationships, or just trying to make your day a little smoother, these strategies can give you an edge in everyday life.
Remember: the key to making these tricks work is subtlety. The best psychological techniques are the ones people don’t notice you’re using. So go ahead, try them out, and watch how your interactions shift for the better.
As you start using these seven psychology tricks, you’ll find that you have a bit more control over your interactions — and you’ll be able to steer conversations, negotiations, and relationships in ways that benefit everyone involved.
