Pre-empting

Techniques > Resisting persuasion > Pre-empting

Method | Example | Discussion | See also

Method

Get in early and talk about what they are likely to talk about. Grab the baton. Seize the initiative. Take charge before they do.

Then defuse their position. Pull the rug out from underneath them or otherwise deny them the ability to make their point.

For example you can make areas 'off limits' or answer their questions before they ask them.

Example

Before we start can I just say that discussions about price are not valid here. We need to agree performance details first.

Just to let you know that I am not going the match tomorrow. Sorry.

Discussion

What is said first in a conversation can be used to set the scene for the rest of the discussion. Getting in early thus allows you to change the course of events.

By covering the topic early, pre-empting stops the other person from presenting their case and perhaps being able to be persuasive.