Most people do not know the difference between persuasion and manipulation; they think that both concepts are the same and that persuasion is somehow less strong.
The difference resides in the means used and the intention with which one and the other is done.
Persuasion
- It respects the feelings and beliefs of the other person.
- It promotes the fulfillment of the wishes or needs of the other person.
- It aims at a "win-win" situation as a result.
- It allows the other person to make the choice that is in their best interest.
- It sets out what it has to be lost and what its counterpart has to gain.
- It manages to establish a connection with the mind and heart of the partner.
- Its outcomes are effective and of longer-lasting nature, since it achieves the conviction.
Manipulation
- It suppresses the feelings and beliefs of the other person.
- It forces the other person to achieve the wishes of other people.
- It uses any means to push the other person to do something inconvenient for you.
- It states what is best for oneself at that moment.
- It connects with what is best for the other person at that moment (blackmail).
- Its results only last as long as the manipulator's true motives or interests are present.
And much more!
