I graduated cum laude on a thesis about mass influence so your question kind of intrigues me... Robert Cialdini has written a great book on this: 'Influence: th

I graduated cum laude on a thesis about mass influence so your question kind of intrigues me... Robert Cialdini has written a great book on this: 'Influence: the psychology of persuasion'. Cialdini discovered 6 principles that can persuade others: - Reciprocity - Commitment - Social proof - Authority - Liking - Scarcity You can find the principles at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Cialdini#Six_.22Weapons_of_Influence.22 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Cialdini#Six_.22Weapons_... but you really should read the book, it's a good read. I realize some of his tactics lean towards black flag so use with caution. Dress up the truth, but remain caring and honest would be my advice.