Maximum Influence: The 12 Universal Laws of Power Persuasion

If you have ever read Cialdini's INFLUENCE, then the title of this book says it all. MAXIMUM INFLUENCE is influence and persuasion for our day and age. Some techniques have been worn out by old school sales people and rookies alike, but Mortensen is able to show you how to effectively use them today...not to mention the techniques and "laws of persuasion" I have never seen mentioned in another book. As a sales manager for many years, I purchase this for all my employees and whole heartedly reccomend it to any one who persuades for a living.

When a book on persuasion leaves you uncomfortable over how easy it is to manipulate people, it has probably done a good job. Author Kurt W. Mortensen, who warns that persuasion, like other tools, can be used for good or evil, will probably raise your hackles as he takes you deeper into the world of manipulation. His advice on how to become a "Master Persuader" is convincing. Reading this volume may tell you how to win the persuasion game, but, by itself, it will not equip you to do so any more than a roadmap will transport drivers to their destinations. Luckily for buyers and voters everywhere, it takes years of experience to learn how and when to apply the lessons taught in this book. That said, within these pages the craft of craftiness is laid plain for all to read. Machiavelli move over - Mortensen wants to teach you some new persuasive techniques. We recommend this book to those whose livelihoods depend on altering hearts and minds.

Maximum Influence ranks with the best books that I have studied in the field of sales and persuasion. It is easy to read and understand yet it is backed up with psycological research. These principles work. You just need to take the time to study and learn them. It is a no nonsense guide to understanding how to motivate people to do what you want.... and like it!

Kurt has really created a masterpiece! This is great for beginning and veteran persuaders alike. Most books on this subject I read once and I don't pick them up again, but this book is so full of new content I get something out of it everytime I pick it up. I specifically love how the chapters are so well divided into different laws, because often times I just want to focus on one law or even a small part of one law and this book is divided in such a way that to me it is more like a toolbox of ideas of which I can pick and choose what I need. This book is helping me to understand that persuasion has changed and I need to as well.