Why Social Influence is Powerful
You may not realise you’re being influenced.
How good would it be to realise it?
Awareness of social influence will help you make better decisions. So, what is social influence?
“People will look to the action of others to determine their own.”
In Psychology it’s also called social proof or consensus.
Last week I went to a popular local café in Brisbane where they serve great coffee. As I walked in I noticed almost 8 out of 10 people were with other people enjoying coffee and looking at their phones. I automatically reached for my phone. Then, stopped. I was almost influenced by social influence! Awareness helped.
Be aware.
“Just because everyone else is doing it doesn’t mean you should.”
Be a critical thinker and use logic. If you manage to speak with someone who’s not looking at their phone be mindful of The Halo Effect. It’s a type of psychological bias. For example, Brad Pitt is a celebrity that’s good-looking and successful. According to The Halo Effect he ‘must’ also be kind and intelligent. Is he?
Probably.
The point is awareness. Be aware of how powerful social influence is. Practice and have fun.
By Adam Bowcutt BSc (Hons) Psychology & Sociology. Founder of My Side Business™
