MEMS

Before anyone allows you to influence them, they want to know, "Who are you and why are you here?" If you don't take the time to give a positive answer to that question, they will make up their own answers—usually negative. It is human nature to expect that anyone out to influence others has something to gain from it. Most people subconsciously assume your gain will mean their loss. This is human nature. We instinctually erect barriers/suspicions to protect ourselves. You need to tell a story that demonstrates you are the kind of person people can trust. This will be different in different situations. On one extreme, I can imagine that a bunch of gang members might begin to trust a new kid if he told a convincing story about stealing (or worse). But I am reasonably sure you aren't a gang member and the only stories that will work for you will be the kind of stories that demonstrate your moral and ethical character, or in business situations, your ability to turn a profit. Whatever simultaneously connects to something relevant and meaningful to your listeners and gives them a taste of who you are, works. Think about your own experience with anyone who ever wanted to influence you—boss, co-worker,singer, salesperson, volunteer,rapper, preacher, or consultant. Think of one person who succeeded and one who failed. How connected did you feel to each? Did you "feel connected" because this person influenced you or did they influence you because you felt connected to this person? What made you trust one and not the other? Chances are that it was important for you to know what kind of person they were and what they stood to gain from your cooperation. Sure, your potential gain counts, but your judgments about their believability heavily influenced how much you trusted their assurances about your potential gain. No matter what people say about "what's in it for you," potential self interest, reasons why, or logical justifications, we filter every word through a believability index based on our judgments about who they are and why they are here. "AND SO MY CHARACTER IS RELEASED THROUGH MY MUSIC" M.E.M.S.