Conversational Hypnosis

Conversational hypnosis encompasses a series of techniques that seek to gain control over another. Find out more here.

Reviewed and approved by the psychologist Sergio De Dios González.

Written by Edith Sánchez

Last update: 29 May, 2023

Conversational hypnosis is a method of implanting suggestions when talking to another person. It makes use of some classic hypnosis tools. However, it doesn’t have a therapeutic purpose. In fact, it seeks to influence the individual, so that they’re persuaded of something or feel motivated to carry out a particular action.

Hypnotic states are more frequent than you might think. They occur when someone becomes so absorbed in a situation, it’s as if the rest of the world doesn’t exist. In that state, they’re more easily influenced. This is the basic premise of conversational hypnosis.

There’s a common misconception that a hypnotized person completely loses their will and will follow any instructions given by the hypnotist. But, this isn’t true. Indeed, no one can be forced to do something that goes against their will. However, they can be persuaded or influenced. Let’s find out what conversational hypnosis is all about.

Conversational hypnosis

Conversational hypnosis is a structured method of persuasion that seeks to influence the perceptions and beliefs of an individual or group, via verbal, non-verbal, and vocal language (the latter is associated with voice and speech management). It’s used in everyday life. For instance, in marketing and politics, among other fields.

Those who apply conversational hypnosis claim that it’s a practice aimed at the reptilian brain. This is the most primitive and instinctive part of the brain. Perhaps it’s more accurate to speak of the unconscious. Through a series of techniques, this process seeks to circumvent the rational mind. As such, suggestions are implanted in the individual without them being aware of it.

Anyone can use this type of hypnosis. It doesn’t require any special skills, but it does require a lot of practice. The basic techniques must be repeatedly employed until enough skill is acquired so that the subject doesn’t notice that they’re being influenced.

The process of conversational hypnosis

Within conversational hypnosis, there are four tactics.

Establishment of a framework

This consists of ‘taking command’ of a conversation. The person who exercises the hypnosis is the director of the situation. But, they don’t take charge by making displays of power or impositions. Quite the contrary, in fact.

Basically, this type of hypnosis hijacks a person’s will. The instigator adapts themselves to them, observes what they say, and gives them positive feedback that leads to agreement.

For example, if the person is experiencing a conflict between them and another individual, the initiator listens to them and starts making suggestions like “I can see that you have a really good point and have good reason to be dissatisfied. But, you should also consider if the other person has something valid to say”.

Generate rapport

Rapport is a harmonious psychological connection between individuals. Its function within conversational hypnosis is to create a climate of trust. In this case, the initiator imitates the other person in everything. They imitate their tone of voice and style of speaking and even paraphrase what they say.

The bottom line is that we unconsciously tend to trust people who look like us. Indeed, how many people have been hired because they studied in the same place as the person who interviewed them?

A pattern of change

This is employed when the individual is already absorbed in the conversation and, therefore, more easily influenced. The technique is based on stories and anecdotes. Through them, the initiator gives them an ‘order’ without them realizing it. That’s because asking for something directly often generates misgivings. On the other hand, doing it within the framework of a narrative means the order is implanted in their unconscious.

An implication closure

Once the hypnotic suggestion has been implanted in them, the matter can be closed. Consequently, the initiator immediately changes the subject. This generates ‘selective amnesia’ and the individual consciously forgets the request. However, it remains fixed in their unconscious.

Does it work?

Conversational hypnosis has proven to be effective in many areas. In fact, advertising continually makes use of its techniques. Political leaders are also regular practitioners of it or other similar methods.

Anyone can become skilled in the use of these techniques. They simply need to practice them continuously. In fact, the success of this type of hypnosis lies in carrying the conversation in the most natural way possible.