I’ve had the opportunity to learn directly from some of the front-line researchers in the Science of Influence. One of those experts, Dr. Robert Cialdini, was recently quoted on CNBC News about the way billionaire Warren Buffett builds trust through his shareholder communications. It’s a counter-intuitive strategy that Dr. Cialdini identified years ago as a powerful influencer.
Every year in his Brookshire Hathaway shareholder letter, CEO Warren Buffett begins by admitting a mistake or error that he or his company made in the previous year. Why would he do that? Isn’t bringing out a mistake going to undercut confidence and trust? Actually, just the opposite is true because Cialdini’s research shows that admitting a weakness early influences people to trust you. People are impressed that you are willing to show them your vulnerabilities and that translates into honesty. After hearing you admit a weakness, people are much more likely to believe what you say next.
If you’d like to know more, check out the article at http://cnb.cx/2tOe588