Ethical Influence and Persuasion

About this course

The course examines how influence works in organisational and market-facing settings, including authority, social proof, cognitive dissonance and other psychological mechanisms. Learners consider ethical boundaries, group dynamics and ways to recognise or resist unwanted influence. Practical scenarios are used to explore strategic preparation, building connection, reducing uncertainty and motivating action. The course also considers how these approaches apply to leadership, internal and external pitching, and the creation of convincing written copy.

What you'll learn

• Explain key psychological principles underlying influence and persuasion
• Evaluate ethical considerations when applying persuasion techniques
• Prepare strategically for influence scenarios in organisational and market-facing contexts
• Analyse examples of group influence and dynamics
• Identify approaches for recognising and resisting unwanted influence

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for current or aspiring managers and leaders, as well as professionals who pitch internally or externally or write persuasive copy. Its all-levels designation suggests that learners with varied levels of prior familiarity may attend, while the subject matter is particularly relevant to people applying influence in professional settings.

• Relevant to current and aspiring managers or leaders
• Suitable for professionals who regularly pitch ideas or proposals
• Useful for those producing convincing written copy

Before you go

• A Birkbeck certificate of participation is provided on completion.
• The course is non-credit bearing and carries no credit points.