Influence over others can manifest in subtle ways, often without either party fully realizing it. While you may not want to overtly test someone’s loyalty or sway, there are sneaky yet harmless ways to gauge just how much influence you might have over them. These small, psychological “tests” can reveal how receptive someone is to your ideas, suggestions, or even requests. Here are some subtle methods to measure your influence on someone without them even noticing.

1. The Suggestion Test

One simple way to test your influence is to casually suggest something and observe whether they adopt it. This could be a small behavioral change, like trying a new type of coffee or listening to a song you recommend. The key is to see if they follow your suggestion without much hesitation.

• What to watch for: Do they take your suggestion quickly, or do they seem reluctant or indifferent? If they act on your suggestion, it’s a sign that your opinion carries weight.

2. The Mirroring Test

People tend to mirror the behaviors and body language of those they are subconsciously influenced by. You can test this by making small physical gestures, such as crossing your arms, leaning forward, or rubbing your chin, and then see if they mimic you.

• What to watch for: If they start copying your gestures or posture without realizing it, it indicates that they’re in tune with you, which is often a sign of influence.

3. The Texting Response Time Test

People tend to prioritize communication with those they value or are influenced by. Send them a text or message and measure how long it takes them to respond compared to other interactions. A quick response, especially when they’re busy, suggests that they prioritize your communication.

• What to watch for: Do they respond faster than usual, or even explain why they took longer? Consistently quick replies are a subtle sign of your influence on them.

4. The “Favorite” Test

Ask them about their favorite things—food, movie, music genre, etc.—and then, a week or two later, casually mention your favorite in a similar category. Over time, observe if their preferences start to align more with yours.

• What to watch for: If they gradually start to favor things that you’ve previously mentioned or show increased interest in your preferences, they’re likely being influenced by you.

5. The Opinion Shift Test

This test is useful during discussions or debates. Subtly introduce a controversial or alternative opinion. If they originally disagree but then gradually come around to your point of view, it shows how much sway you have over their thinking.

• What to watch for: If they start out disagreeing and then begin to express your viewpoint as their own, even in future conversations, it’s a sign you have significant influence over their opinions.

6. The “Do Me a Favor” Test

A classic but effective method is to ask for a small favor. It could be something like borrowing an item, helping with a task, or asking for a small amount of their time. If they do it willingly, it’s a strong sign they’re open to your requests and guidance.

• What to watch for: Do they complete the favor eagerly, or with reluctance? Willingly helping you out indicates they value your relationship and are willing to go the extra mile for you.

7. The Social Media Like Test

Post something on social media and see if they consistently like or comment on your posts. Frequent engagement suggests that they pay attention to you and feel a connection to what you share, even in a public space.

• What to watch for: If they regularly interact with your posts, especially when they engage more than others do, it’s a signal that they’re attuned to what you put out into the world, showing a form of influence.

8. The Plan-Making Test

Try suggesting plans for the future—like a weekend outing, watching a particular movie, or trying a new restaurant. If they readily agree or show excitement, it indicates they’re willing to follow your lead and let you make decisions.

• What to watch for: If they are open to your suggestions or even show excitement, this is a subtle way to measure how much they value your ideas and direction.

9. The Clothing or Style Influence Test

If you have a certain style or way of dressing, subtly observe whether they start adopting similar elements into their own wardrobe. Influence often shows up in how people align themselves visually with those they admire.

• What to watch for: If they begin incorporating aspects of your style, even in small ways, they’re likely influenced by your choices and taste.

10. The Passive Agreement Test

In conversation, casually throw out a mild opinion about something and see if they agree with you automatically, without much thought. If they often default to agreeing with your opinions, even when it’s not a topic they’re passionate about, it could be a sign of influence.

• What to watch for: Do they agree with you out of habit, or do they challenge your opinions? Frequent, automatic agreement suggests that they value your perspective highly.

Conclusion

Influence can be a powerful tool in relationships, whether personal or professional. These sneaky tests provide subtle ways to gauge how much sway you have over someone, without being overt or confrontational. While influence can be an indicator of trust and respect, it’s important to use it responsibly and not to manipulate others. Strong, healthy relationships are built on mutual respect, and understanding how much influence you have can help you foster a balanced dynamic with the people around you.