Mind Control for Managers: Five Ways to Shape Others’ Thinking
“These aren’t the droids you’re looking for.” Those immortal words from Obi Wan Kenobi, and his whole way of being, were a master class in mind control.
Not to sound creepy, but a strong leader can and should shape others’ beliefs, attitudes, assumptions 一 in a word: influence mindset. Telling people what action to take is one way to lead. Expertly and benevolently bringing them into a particular mindset is a more powerful, sweeping, and lasting approach.
Good individual contributors are able to manage their own mindsets. Good leaders can manage the mindsets of others.
Here are five tactics you can use to shift the mindsets of your team members and others.
Language and framing. Words are powerful. Use language that sets the frame of the conversation. For example, "interesting challenge" is more of an invitation than “problem." Don’t be euphemistic or disingenuous; it’s easy to see through. But choose words thoughtfully.
Story and history. Use stories to make a point and share history with a purposeful narrative. A compelling story that starts with “We got to this point because …” is a way to bring about a mindset shift.
Questions. Use questions to focus attention in the right places. For example, "What would you need this equipment to do to make it worth the investment?"
Assertion: Simply say what you want the other person to think. Speak the truth with confidence and heart. Obi Wan did it. You can too.
Empathy and caring. Be understanding and concerned about the other person. Know what they value and genuinely want them to have it.
This is not an argument for mistreating or manipulating people. But leaders need to feel comfortable stepping into their power. And one critical dimension of that power is shaping the mindsets of those around them.