The 5 Influence Styles: Why Some People Are Impossible to Persuade

The 5 Influence Styles: Why Some People Are Impossible to Persuade

Author: Howie Chan, Influence Strategist @ The Behavioring Company June 30, 2026 Duration: 16:07
Why can the exact same message change one person's mind instantly, while it does nothing for someone else? In this solo episode, Howie Chan explores the real reason persuasion fails so often, because most people communicate the way they want to be heard, not the way the other person actually processes information. He introduces the five influence styles that shape human behavior, drawn from years of studying behavioral science and working with leaders, founders, and salespeople. He reveals what each style is built on, where it breaks down under pressure, and why stress doesn't create your style; it reveals it. You'll learn how Commanders, Scientists, Storytellers, Connectors, and Sages move people to act, where their biggest blind spots hide, and the one shift that makes influencing anyone dramatically easier. Chapters: 00:00:00 People Are Influenced Differently 00:02:48 The Commander Influence Style 00:03:59 The Scientist Influence Style 00:05:36 The Storyteller Influence Style 00:07:14 The Connector Influence Style 00:09:31 The Sage Influence Style 00:12:43 Pressure Reveals Your True Style Check out Howie’s episode with Dr. Robert Cialdini: Godfather of Influence: The Persuasion Principle that Resulted in a $700K Gift & The “Bible of Online Marketing” (Episode 50) What’s Your Influence Style? What do you do when you need someone to do something? This quiz will help you discover what is your most natural influence style, so you can use that strength more effectively (and know your blind spots.) → https://www.influencestylequiz.com/ Join 700+ leaders who've already uncovered what their style is. — Produced by Ideablossoms

Howie Chan hosts Influence Anyone, a conversation that digs into the practical mechanics of persuasion and personal change. Rather than abstract theory, this podcast focuses on applied influence psychology, translating research and real-world experience into actionable strategies. Episodes feature dialogues with leading experts and practitioners, dissecting the subtle psychological forces that shape both internal motivation and external agreement. You’ll hear discussions on mastering your own mindset and habits alongside concrete methods for branding, storytelling, and negotiation. The aim is to move from insight to implementation, turning behavioral science into reliable playbooks for leadership and persuasion. Covering intersections of science, business, marketing, and social dynamics, the podcast provides a nuanced look at how influence operates in various arenas of life. Listeners gain a deeper understanding of the principles that drive decision-making, equipping them to navigate professional challenges and personal goals with greater clarity. The tone is exploratory and detailed, prioritizing depth over quick fixes. By examining the hidden architecture of influence, Howie Chan creates a resource for anyone looking to understand the why behind effective action and communication. This is a place where academic findings meet street-level practice, all dedicated to creating more meaningful and effective outcomes.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Influence Anyone
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