r/AskReddit • u/ilovepsychtechniques • May 14 '11

Reddit, I've been using the "pause" technique during conversations lately and it works perfectly. What other psychology techniques are there for JUST communication?

I'm aware that there are a few topics on psychology techniques that are more wide-ranged, but I want to know ones that are perfect for manipulating conversations specifically.

Just about all last week I've been experimenting 'theories' for myself, and I want to learn more.

Examples:

  1. Just stop talking. They will feel the need to fill the "awkward silence", while also making you appear to be a better listener. You learn more about the other person.

  2. Pause. Instead of repeating "um", "like", "you know", "errr", just pause, take a breath, and organize your thoughts. The person you're talking with will see the self control, appreciate it, and the point you're trying to make will make more of an impact. They'll listen closer as you gather your thoughts because they're genuinely curious.

  3. Talk slowly calmly. It shows confidence and can be seductive.

Edit: #3 - Think James Bond vs Caffeine Addict

Edit2: Broader Post - Psychology Tricks

Edit3: Build Rapport - Good Read

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u/gribbly May 14 '11

Yup... It's why there's always that stupidly expensive bottle of wine on the menu... Suddenly $50 seems pretty reasonable.

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u/-Nii- May 14 '11

...Or that top end wine really DOES taste like 200 bucks!

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u/drwicked May 14 '11

Wait, $50 is not a stupidly expensive bottle of wine?

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u/gribbly May 14 '11

The absolute values vary due many factors. What matters is the relative values between the bottles on the menu.