Quality Quote: The Art of Persuasion

Quality Quote: “The art of persuasion is greater than the strength of force.” The North Wind and the Sun, from Aesop’s Fables (Perry Index 46).

The fable of the North Wind and the Sun tells of a wager between the two, who each argue they are more powerful than the other. The North Wind tries to use force to blow off the traveller’s coat, but to no avail. The traveller pulls his coat tighter to ward off the cold. The Sun then uses persuasion, shining on the traveller, who finds the heat too much and removes his coat.

When management systems are developed, it is critical to obtain input from all stakeholders to build buy-in and ownership of the system. By taking the path of persuasion and consultation, streamlined management systems can be developed and adopted with far greater success than through a prescriptive or dictatorial approach.

Related guide: Clause 5.1 leadership and commitment, on leading change by persuasion rather than force.

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