Question to PA - Influence The Psychology Of Persuasion

 Why is understanding persuasion important for a PA?

• A. So she can convince people to buy things

• B. So she can protect herself and influence others ethically

• C. So she can appear smarter

• D. So she can control others

Answer explanation

Explanation:

As a PA, being aware of persuasive tactics helps you avoid being manipulated — and also helps you guide others more effectively in daily decisions and interactions.

 What does the “contrast effect” teach a PA when presenting options?

• A. Always show the cheapest thing first

• B. People make better decisions when rushed

• C. People compare current options to what they just saw

• D. People dislike being given multiple options

Answer explanation

Explanation:

When arranging meeting times or proposals, understanding how the order of presentation influences perception helps you guide decisions more strategically.

 Which pricing perception can impact how others value something?

• A. Low price means high quality

• B. Price doesn’t matter

• C. Expensive means high quality

• D. Free means useless

Answer explanation

Explanation:

Whether you’re assisting with events, bookings, or purchasing, it's helpful to know that many people associate higher prices with higher quality — even if it’s not always true.

 How can a PA use the rule of reciprocity wisely?

• A. Give before asking for help

• B. Always ask first

• C. Never return favors

• D. Wait for others to offer

Answer explanation

Explanation:

A small helpful gesture — like sharing information or assisting a colleague — can make it easier to get support later when coordinating tasks or asking for cooperation.

 What might happen if someone gives a PA a small gift or favor?

• A. She will ignore it

• B. She may feel pressure to give back

• C. She becomes smarter

• D. She avoids that person

Answer explanation

Explanation:

Being aware of this psychological effect helps you pause and evaluate decisions clearly — instead of feeling obligated to say “yes” just because someone was nice first.

What can a PA learn from the “door-in-the-face” technique?

• A. Ask something unreasonable first

• B. Start big, then offer something smaller

• C. Always accept the first answer

• D. Offer no options

Answer explanation

Explanation:

If someone declines your first request, reframing it with a smaller or easier one can increase your chances of getting agreement — useful for scheduling or coordinating tasks.

 Why is the “liking” principle relevant to a PA’s communication?

• A. Because people ignore polite staff

• B. Because influence grows when people like you

• C. Because compliments are manipulative

• D. Because being liked is not useful

Answer explanation

Explanation:

Whether in person or online, being likable helps you build smoother communication, faster replies, and stronger relationships that support your daily responsibilities.

 What should a PA be cautious about when someone is overly friendly?

• A. They may be lonely

• B. They may genuinely admire her

• C. It could be a persuasion tactic

• D. It means nothing

Answer explanation

Explanation:

Sometimes friendliness is used to influence decisions. Staying aware of this helps you stay objective, especially when dealing with vendors or incoming proposals.

 What does the “social proof” principle suggest?

• A. People love working alone

• B. Most people avoid trends

• C. People follow what others are doing

• D. People ignore popular choices

Answer explanation

Explanation:

When coordinating with others, showing that “most people have already responded” or “others confirmed this time” can increase cooperation and faster decisions.

Why should a PA not always rely on popularity?

• A. Popular ideas are always wrong

• B. Social proof can be faked

• C. Popular choices never change

• D. She should always follow the crowd

Answer explanation

Explanation:

Even when something looks widely accepted, reviews and opinions can be biased or staged — so it's smart to double-check before making commitments.