Bill and Sally are both interviewing for a job. Here's how each ended the interview:

BILL (crowing, as many job-hunting guides suggest, and speaking very rapidly): I believe I'm the right person for the job. Don't you agree?

SALLY (in a moderate tone): Well, based on what I know about the job, it seems like a good fit for me, but what do you think?

Do you think Bill or Sally has a better chance of getting the job?

Patty and Dave both have a new idea they're pitching to their boss.

PATTY (gushing): I've got this fantastic new idea.

DAVE: I have an idea. I'm wondering whether you think it's any good.

Who do you think will get a better response?

In most scenarios, understating your case leaves the best impression. Principles of marketing, psychology, and even religion explain why:

Marketing. In the old days, the hard sell worked. But today, we're likely to shut down when we feel we're being solicited. Would the old-fashioned, carnival-huckster approach make you feel comfortable spending your money? "Step right up, ladies and gentlemen, and let me tell you about Dr. CureAll's Magic Elixir, absolutely, positively guaranteed to cure headaches, stomachaches, diarrhea, practically whatever ails ya. I'll sell it to you for the low, low price of just $19.95. And if you buy now, I'll throw in another bottle absolutely free. So who's ready to buy?"

I doubt it's you.

Psychology. Most people dislike feeling bullied or manipulated into making a decision. And we're even more wary when it's a rapid-fire pitch, which makes us less likely to fully understand it. We like to feel like we're in control, which is why we're more likely to react positively to a soft-sell approach. That gives us room to feel we are judging an idea's merit independently.

Religion. Eighty-five percent of Americans are Christians, and a core Christian value is, "Don't be too willful." Many Christians, as well as others, consciously or unconsciously view unbridled aggressiveness as defying God's will.

So when you're trying to convince someone of something, when in doubt, understate your case. Now, my friends, what are you waiting for? Time's running out! So, act now!!!! Take advantage of my AMAAAAZING advice!!!!!! Anyone who takes my advice in the next 30 minutes...