THE WORD THE FBI BANNED

@openresidency

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Selling · Course / Info

Chris Voss Negotiation Masterclass https://youtu.be/LjMSIHzNDSo ↗

Why it worked

The post leverages a provocative hook about a 'banned word' and a relatable problem (killing meetings) to draw viewers in. It then provides a clear, actionable solution based on the expertise of a well-known figure in negotiation, Chris Voss, making the content valuable and shareable.

Summary

This post explains how the word "why" can trigger defensiveness and hinder communication, drawing on Chris Voss's experience as a negotiator. It suggests replacing "why" with "what" or "how" to foster more collaborative conversations.

Structure

1Introduce the banned word and its impact
2Explain Chris Voss's background and the word's dual nature
3Identify the word as "why" and provide examples
4Offer the solution: swap "why" for "what" or "how"
5Illustrate with a practical example of improved communication

Product placement

The post promotes Chris Voss's negotiation expertise, likely through a masterclass or course, as indicated by the bio link and the content discussing his negotiation strategies.

Original caption

"Why" is quietly killing every conversation you have... #negotiation #communication #sales #business #leadership

More from @openresidency

Their other posts in the index, biggest breakout first.

Call to action

Implicit call to action to learn more about negotiation techniques, likely through the linked YouTube video which may lead to a course or further resources.

On-screen text

OPEN-RESIDENCY THE WORD THE FBI BANNED One word triggers defensiveness in every country, every culture, every age group. The FBI banned it in hostage negotiations. You're using it 20 times a day without noticing. It's killing your meetings. OR- Chris Voss spent 24 years negotiating with kidnappers, terrorists, and bank robbers. One word made every bad guy on earth explode. That exact same word makes your team shut down in meetings. OR- The word is "why." "Why did you do that?" "Why is this late?" "Why are you asking?" It feels neutral to you. It lands as an accusation on them. Voss traced it back to childhood. Every kid hears "why did you do that?" right after they screw up. The word never recovers. OR- The fix: Swap "why" for "what" or "how." "What's getting in the way of this?" "What made you ask?" "How did we end up here?" Same answer. Zero defensiveness. They start solving it with you instead of defending against you. OR- Your direct report missed a deadline? Don't say: "Why didn't you finish?" Say: "What got in the way?" You'll get the real answer the first time