Absolutely, the power of suggestion can influence others, if they take the suggestion to heart. It's just like more direct communication. If you tell your child they're worthless, stupid and no-good, they may come to believe it. If they believe it, they'll criticize every mistake they make and believe it proves you were right. If you think a friend should be more concerned about the whereabouts of her husband late at night, mentioning it might put the thought in her head. She may, reasonably or unreasonably, start to worry if he's cheating on her.

Ever have someone mention a food you hadn't been thinking of or weren't in the mood for, and suddenly, you're craving it? They may not have intentionally gotten you hungry for that food, but there you go.

You can also dismiss thoughts and some won't stick. In other words, not every suggestion is going to be accepted.

You can see tips on using suggestion and other methods to influence others in books on selling, negotiation, getting your way, etc.