How to Frame a Situation to Guarantee Successful Outcomes

Have you ever wondered how you are convinced of something? Or how to convince someone to do something? It actually isn’t that hard.

We are easily persuaded by the way a situation is framed or explained.

As humans, we usually prefer options that are framed positively because we want to avoid risk. We also trust larger numbers than smaller numbers.

In the business world, if you must cut jobs, it is better to say that 20 jobs will be saved, rather than 5 will be lost.  

In medicine, it is better to state that 90% of people make it through surgery, rather than 10% don’t make it through.

In our every day life, health-conscious people are more likely to buy yogurt that is 90% fat free than one that claims to have 10% fat. 

The information is the same. Only the framing differs.

Unless there is an obvious reason for us to reframe a situation, most of us passively accept problems, situations, or decisions as they framed.

Reframing takes effort.

But by not putting in the effort, we become susceptible to manipulation. It can become hard to know if our preferences or opinions are frame-bound or reality-bound.

On the other hand, if used for good, framing a situation appropriately can be a useful tool to recruit volunteers, gain funding, or elicit support.

More people are likely to be enticed if there is a chance to save 200 lives, or a chance to win $500, even if the odds are low. You just need to leave the second part out.

People make decisions simply based on whether a situation is presented as positive or negative, loss or gain. Being thoughtful about how you frame a situation or a cause, could make all the difference.

Set the proper frame and you are 80 percent of the way to a successful outcome for everyone involved.

 Lauren

P.s. As always, we are here to help. Free 30-minute consultation are available