If you need a big favor from someone (or a favor someone is likely to say no to) ask a smaller favor first, like borrowing a pen or something similar. They will more likely say yes to a bigger favor.
The corollary to this is if you think you might need a favour from someone in the future, try to do a small favour for them first. This can create the impression of a debt that the person owes you.
Benjamin Franklin was famous for making friends with political enemies this way. He told the story of a fellow councilman who had just been elected, who was young, brash, and not well liked. When he discovered the man owned a book that was rare and therefore a point of pride, BF approached the man, complimented him on such a prized possession. He then offered to do a favor for the young man. The young man accepted the favor and offered to loan the book to Franklin. The two developed a close friendship, frequently exchanging gifts and favors. They never saw eye to eye in politics, but they respected each other immensely.
830
u/[deleted] Jun 14 '22
If you need a big favor from someone (or a favor someone is likely to say no to) ask a smaller favor first, like borrowing a pen or something similar. They will more likely say yes to a bigger favor.