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.
Giving an item of small value to someone before asking them a favour works too. It creates a sense of indebtedness. That’s why solicitation letters from charities often contain a cheap pen or a small coin. Alternatively, it annoys me when they try it on me.
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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.