There are two major reasons why you might get a score of 4-3. The first reason: people don’t believe that this idea affects them. They aren’t against you, they just don’t think that what you’re talking about applies to them.

The other reason: their lack of interest really masks something deeper. While it may seem that they are sitting there, quietly bored, their opposition runs deeper, but you can’t see it since they aren’t talking. If either of these scenarios seems to fit your situation, then please take a look at these steps for getting started:

• You’ve got to find out why you gave the score of 3. If you’ve got a good relationship with this person or group, then just ask them. You could let them know that this idea is important to you, and you are curious why it doesn’t appear to be important to them. Obviously, you do that only if you can have a civil conversation with the other person. Your goal in this conversation is to learn what they are thinking. Do NOT try to offer rebuttals—that will shut people up quicker than just about anything.
• Another option: Try something to interest them in this issue that’s important to you. If they don’t see why your idea is so important, then read How to Make a Compelling Case for Change. (See link below.) You’ll need to focus on WHY this is important, and not HOW you want to change things. There is a big difference between trying to pique their curiosity and trying to engage them in doing something differently—you’re aiming for the former.
  
  On the other hand, you might learn that they do see why this is important and understand the plan you’ve got in mind, and they still oppose it. If that’s the case, then take The Energy Bar™ assessment again, and this time read the answer sheets for scores of 4-2 and 4-1.
• Please take a look of the short video on this page. It applies to both interpretations of why the score might be 4-3.

Resources

How to Make a Compelling Case for Change. This is a paper that will show you ways to help people see WHY a change is needed. The step of making a compelling case is the most important – and the most overlooked – stage in the life of any idea. More

The Magic List. A free e-book that will help you identify why people might be resisting you, and show you how to build on the support you do have and work effectively with whatever resistance you are facing. More

Why Resistance Matters is a four-page article that describes three levels of support and resistance. More

Tips on Working with the Three Levels of Resistance. More

The Energy Bar™ Group
It’s most likely that you’re here because you need to gain support from a team, a full organization, or one key person - possibly for a one-time project, an idea that you'd like to see come to life, or maybe for a large-scale organization change. Keep the momentum going and join The Energy Bar™ Group. Our informal online group is where I share my very best work and resources, with examples of people using The Energy Bar™ effectively in organizations. It’s a place for you to connect with peers, ask questions and offer your own ideas. Our group is free to join, and you can opt out easily at any time. I hope you’ll consider joining me. – Rick Maurer