The Small Big: Small Changes that Spark Big Influence

Martin, Goldstein, and Cialdini, leading thinkers from the field of persuasion science, reveal that when it comes to influencing others to change their behavior, the smallest changes often prompt the biggest differences—what they call a “small big.” Seeking to show businesses how to “influence and persuade others in effective and ethical ways,” the authors identify more than 50 minor changes (presented as case studies) that can be put into practice immediately. They also discuss findings from the fields of neuroscience, cognitive psychology, social psychology, and behavioral economics, which are highlighted in short chapters that show how to apply these ideas in different contexts. Chapters center on wide-ranging and useful topics such as name-changing, successful decision making, reducing people’s tendency to procrastinate, showing appreciation, and negotiating with business partners via email. It will be easy for readers to search through this well-organized book for ideas most relevant to their needs. While it’s impossible to know how well these ideas will play out in the real world, they certainly seem innovative on the page. (Sept.)