Research on persuasion and body language shows there is power in a pause. When you make a request, then pause for confirmation.
Say something like, “I can count on you, right?”
After you say it, pause for a response. Research shows this kind of request followed by a pause and then a commitment from someone, increases follow through from 62 to 81 percent.
The powerful steps for making a request that gets follow through.
- Ask for what you want
- Ask for a quick verbal confirmation
- Pause
- Maintain eye contact if you are face to face when making the request.
- Wait for their verbal confirmation. If they give you a head nod make noise such as a grunt, but don't say yes, ask for a yes.