Secret Key to Success... Ask Someone

Another installment about Effective MCR Conversations

Master Composter Recyclers (MCRs) meet lots of friends and neighbours who want to do good things for our planet. Our conversations are important for turning good intentions into real actions.

"Research on persuasion demonstrates that the major influence upon our attitudes and behavior is not the media, but rather our contact with other people." - D. McKenzie-Mohr, 2011

I have heard many MCRs celebrate their conversations with others. "I talked about Edmonton's waste system." "I showed off my home compost bin." "We talked about the Reuse Centre." Yes, that's helpful. This raises awareness, opens their eyes, and opens their minds. People hear what happens to garbage after it leaves the curb.

Turning awareness into action: The Ask

If awareness is the first step, then the next is deciding to act.

Get a commitment. Remember to finish every conversation with an "ask."

The "ask" should be small. The "ask" should be achievable. The "ask" should be the right fit for the individual. The best "ask" is one that the person already wants to say "yes" to.

What's so special about an "ask"?

It's so simple that it's easy to overlook the hidden power in an "ask." It's really quite smart.

"Asks" help put our audience in the driver's seat. This shifts the conversation away from abstract ideas and services by the City of Edmonton. The "ask" addresses one specific thing that they can do, right now.

"Asks" also subtly invite our friend or neighbour to make a commitment. Everyone wants to do as we say. So a specific commitment is most likely to turn their words into results.

Great "asks" sound like...

• Can I count on you to leave your grass clippings on the lawn, next month?
• Can I count on you to put this "What Goes Where" poster on your fridge?
• Will you visit my yard to see how I compost?
• Will you put a box in your home to collect items for the Reuse Centre?
• Can I count on you to take your batteries and light bulbs to the Eco Station?

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Rodney became a Master Composter Recycler in 2008. He enjoys working with passionate volunteers, funny co-workers, and his adorable children. He loves long walks on the beach, fluffing his compost pile, and skiing any time of the year.
Rodney became a Master Composter Recycler in 2008. He enjoys working with passionate volunteers, funny co-workers, and his adorable children. He loves long walks on the beach, fluffing his compost pile, and skiing any time of the year.

More "Effective MCR Conversations"

Previous Give Prompts & Feedback
Next What are the Competing Behaviours?

 

* Doug McKensie-Mohr, Fostering Sustainable Behavior, 2011.