Episode 147 – Mind Reading with Carl Christman

On episode 147, Kurt and Steve interview Carl Christman. Carl is a teacher, mentalist, and author of the best-selling book How to Read Minds and Influence People. The conversation goes from mind reading into deception and how persuaders can use it to their advantage. Check out the video on his site. It’s very entertaining!

Let’s talk a bit about deception. We don’t need to say it here, but we will. Deception is wrong and does trigger incongruence. On the flip the side the challenge you could have is that when you get nervous or uneasy you might be showing signs or deception. What we’re saying here is that even if you are telling the truth and think you are congruent, you might be sending signals of incongruency and deception. The audience can’t always identify exactly what is making them distrustful, but they feel that way and that is all that matters to them. What happens is we all have micro expressions that happen so rapidly the conscious mind can’t see them, but the subconscious can sense them. These are quick mannerisms in the face that reveal deception or nervousness. Another one that causes an increase in their deception radar is a disconnect between your emotion and your reaction. For example if you make an angry face, then hit the table with your hand 5 seconds later, that would be an obvious red flag you are not feeling that emotion. Careful that you are congruent with every aspect of your message.

Everyone can pick up on your nonverbal behavior. We sense something is not quite right. Others will sense when there is any form of incongruence or deception radiating from you. Be aware that many of your nonverbal behaviors that you are currently doing will trigger incongruence. It might be a natural part of your behavior, but it could look like deception. Things that could trigger deception:

Forced eye contact

Shifting back in chair

Rubbing or touching lips

Scratching your face

Dilated pupils

Yawning

Pitch of voice rising