To avoid being manipulated by persuasion experts, it is important to understand the common techniques they use and how they work. For instance, reciprocity is when someone offers something, such as a favor or a compliment, expecting you to return the favor or agree to their request. To counter this technique, be aware of the value and intention of the offer and only accept it if you are comfortable and willing to reciprocate. Additionally, scarcity is when someone creates a sense of urgency or exclusivity around something, pressuring you to act quickly or miss out. To avoid this manipulation, do your own research and comparison without letting fear of losing or missing out cloud your judgment. Authority is when someone uses their credentials, expertise, or reputation to persuade you to trust them or follow their advice. To counter this technique, verify their sources and claims instead of relying on their authority alone. Consistency is when someone tries to make you commit to a small action or statement, then uses it to make you agree to a larger one. To avoid this manipulation, be careful about what you say or do and not feel obliged to be consistent if the situation or information changes. Liking is when someone tries to make you like them or feel a connection with them in order to influence your decisions or behavior. To counter this technique, be aware of the factors that affect your liking such as similarity, attractiveness, or flattery and not let them interfere with your rationality or objectivity. Lastly, consensus is when someone uses the opinions or actions of others to persuade you to conform or comply. To avoid this manipulation, think for yourself and not follow the crowd blindly.