Hobgoblins of the mind: Social proof and commitments in email

Yesterday I recieved a request by some whats-their-name publication to write a 700 words column for them. They introduced a time constraint to make the request seem more important (but not too urgent, to avoid seeming desperate).

Being with a full schedule, I cordially responded and asked for a time-frame, as I don't necessarily have the time to commit. They responded with two weeks, a good time frame although from past experience two weeks usually means six to eight available (time) for the editors.

Payment was not mentioned, so this is a pro-bono thang. I never heard of them before so wasn't in much of a hurry to commit time I don't have out of my "lazy time" allocation.

They mentioned others who write for them on the subject, and that they want to publish these, now blogs, together. I looked at the names and recognized a couple. One worked for the Whitehouse and the other for a known entity.

I wasn't too impressed, but that bit is what tipped the scale and caused me to say yes. Once I said yes I am committed.. You know how silly humans are about holding up to their commitments and staying consistent? I am worse. Usually that is a good thing, but it is also a compliance tool to get a yes out of people.

The names at the footer of the email message made me accept the publication as worthy, social proof 101.

I am committed. Or am I?

Emailing the guy back I luckily asked for the subjects on which these others are writing on, so we can avoid over-lap and "get some ideas". I haven't heard back yet.

I may have been had, but at least I wasn't automatic in my response. These names writing there means little to me. I have something I am unsure on where to publish and like to help smaller publications, so their what's their name publication is as good as any--if they show me they are serious rather than avoid the subject of subjects.

"A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds." -- Ralph Waldo Emerson.

Suggested reading is once again Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion.

Pinky.

Update:
They got back to me, two weeks later. They asked for when I will be able to submit my text.

I asked them about my question.. what these other authors are writing about, so I can avoid duplication and get ideas.

Their reply was that it was confidential, and that it is their job as editors to avoid such problems.

Logical flaws aside, and my willingness to write for a small publication ignored... If I write for these people they will just use my name when talking to others, to get them to write for them. Heck, they probably did already.