Peer-suasion is a strong behavior. We follow others who are like us. The similarity bonds even further, and people do even more similar things. This is also visible in teenagers; they rebel against their parents but strongly follow the rules in teenage groups. I also observe this as a manager and in my daily life. When I mention something I’m doing to my direct reports at work, they are less likely to replicate. However, if I praise their peers, they replicate the praised behavior more. I also do the same with my friends. I observe that we start using similar phrases or doing similar behaviors when we’re in the group and bond more if we share the same language. However, knowing the peer-suasion influence, I sometimes deflect using the exact phrases.
- Related Note(s):
- Peer-suasion can be an effective strategy to improve the code review process.
- We can use peer-suasion techniques to invest in growing the team at work (forming groups with similar interests?)
- Finding similarities between people as a facilitator is the first step so they establish peer-relations. This can result in higher chances of success for action items taken during the meeting.
- Source(s): Influence by Robert B. Cialdini
