FREAK Shots: Compel Them With Empathy

A recent FREAK Shot sparked a series of photo submissions and comments about the best way for a sign to get people to do what it’s asking.

In this video, Wired contributing editor Daniel Pink claims the most effective signs appeal to people’s empathies and don’t just give a command. (HT: Ross)

He recommends, for example, preempting “Pick up after your dog,” with “Children play here.”

Here are more sign photos sent in by readers. (Send your FREAK-worthy photos (signs and otherwise) here.)

Which would you be most — or least — inclined to heed?

Alvin Roth

Daniel Smyth

Bradley Hemenway

Alvin Roth

Kiril Rusev

Laura Seay, HIV prevention, Congo.