Unfortunately I was absent for this lecture, so I have had to do a little research and have a good think about what tactics of manipulation are?
In terms of our group distribution and the experience I had when distributing our cause to the public, the tactics of manipulation used by myself and other members of the group included:
"WE'RE NOT SELLING ANYTHING!"
Saying this grabbed peoples attention and made it clear to them that we just wanted to speak and not ask for money. This was the most successful tactic used for our distribution.
"WE'RE STUDENTS COMPLETING AN ASSIGNMENT"
I used this line when a family with kids were present. I found that that the parents were more than happy to listen and support our cause and also set an example for their kids in supporting an educational activity.
STAND IN AN ENTRY OR EXIT POINT
Using this tactic of manipulation was quite effective. Placing yourself at a point where people frequently enter or exit and handing out your cause items gives people not much time to think so they just take it. Also I found that people generally copy what that person in front does, so if one person took it, the one behind felt they needed to as well.
PEOPLE WAITING AT BUS STOPS
This was a very successful tactic of manipulation used by our group. We figured that targeting people that were waiting for the bus was perfect as they were not really doing anything but waiting, plus they couldn't go anywhere. We were able to speak to a fare few individuals using this tactic.
GIVE AWAY SOMETHING FREE
This tactic of manipulation always works. When there is something free with no strings attached people usually are very interested. For our group distribution we handed out a selection of branded t-shirts promoting our cause. Once we handed out one, people were going away telling their friends to come and get plus people walking by would stop to see what the commotion was.
ALWAYS SMILE
This is an obvious one! During our distribution always having a smile on your face was very important in creating a friendly and inviting atmosphere where people would feel comfortable to approach us.
SET THE CAMERA UP
Having the camera set up professionally was another tactic that was used in our distribution. Onlookers seemed more interested in the fact that something was being filmed and were intrigued to find out what. One individual stopped and asked us if we were filming a TV ad? we replied no! and then had the chance to explain exactly what we were doing. Perfect!
