Seem likeable: You should definitely know the Benjamin-Franklin effect

This is how you seem more likeable: With the Benjamin-Franklin effect, you leave a positive impression-without adjusting yourself!

Of course: We cannot be liked by everyone, just as we do not find all people around us. But every now and then it can be useful to apply some psychological tricks to immediately leave a sympathetic impression.

But how can that work? With the so-called "Benjamin-Franklin effect" you immediately become personable to others and leave a positive impression. We'll tell you how you can use the psychological trick.

Benjamin-Franklin effect: What is it?

The Benjamin Franklin effect describes a psychological phenomenon that we people find more likeable who we have done a favor. This effect actually has its name from the writer, inventor and statesman of the same name, who allegedly liked to use the tactic to pull people to his side.

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How do I use the effect?

You can take advantage of the psychological effect in many different situations - for example in dating or at work. In reality it could look like this: You ask your date whether he/she can keep your bag briefly so that you can tie your shoe.

Or you ask a colleague for advice on a professional question. You will see - nobody will reject you, on the contrary. The little request will have a positive effect on your cooperation. But why is that? Numerous studies on this topic show this.

Tipp: Do you want to learn more about the psychology of the broadcast? Then we recommend the book "The art to work: how they are sympathetic and authentically convincing" by Carolin Lüdemann (Order here from Amazon)*.

Studies show: We like who we help

Different studies have dealt with this phenomenon. For example, one showed oneSmall study, with participants from the United States and JapanThe fact that the person who is asked for help can feel that the person looking for help is well -behaved, possibly even friendly - and therefore likes to replace the positive feelings.

One then speaks of "reciprocal affection": the tendency to like people who like us. Small mutual favors can virtually lead to making friends - or simply having a particularly personable effect on others!

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Another study sees the reason for the phenomenon in the so -called cognitive dissonance. Accordingly, it is difficult for humans to do someone a favor and hate this person.

Our harmonious brain can not reconcile the two different mental events - that we do a person a favor and that we don't like this person. Therefore, it decides to like the person to eliminate the dissonance.

What that means is clear:You should just ask others for a favor instead of wanting to regulate everything alone. It pays out twice!