Page 22 - Effective communication Skills by Dale King

way you think is best. There are a lot of techniques that can be

used. The best techniques have one thing in common, and that is
that they aren’t obvious or blatant. Instead, they work by creating
comparisons, meeting people on common ground, and
storytelling.

How to Be Persuasive

Besides the steps mentioned in the last section, there are some more sure-fire

ways to make you more persuasive.

1. Take a strong stand.

You can have all of the reasoning and data in the world, but that doesn’t
always win. Interestingly enough, there has been research that found people
prefer cockiness to expertise. Humans assume that confidence means skill.

Even some of the world’s most skeptical people will be partly persuaded by a
speaker who shows confidence. In fact, people would rather receive advice

from somebody who is positive. We want a confident person so badly that we
are willing to forgive their bad track record.

So, make sure that you are bold. Don’t use words like “I believe” or “I
think.” Quit adding in qualifiers. If you believe something is going to work,
them tell them that. Stand behind every opinion that you have, even if they
are simply opinions. Allow your enthusiasm to shine through. People are
going to naturally be pulled to your side.

2. Start slow and gain small “wins.”

Research has found that gaining agreement is enduring, even if it only
happens over a short period of time. Instead of getting straight to the end of
your argument, begin by using statements or premises that you already know
the audience is likely to agree with. This will help by building a foundation
for more agreement. Keep in mind, a body in motion remains in motion, and

that even applies to a head nod.

3. Connect your rate of speech to your audience.

There are many reasons for that fast-talking salesperson. There are some
situations where talking fast is good. Then there are times when it won’t. One