The Art of Persuasion
So what comes to mind when you hear the word persuasion? Do you think of manipulation or conviction? Do you see persuasion as a positive act or a negative act? The truth is that persuasion is a skill that is required by everyone, especially by persons who desire to lead. A leader of a group or a leader of one’s life.
How do we apply the art of persuasion? You would have to apply some level of persuasion to convince others about your point of view, desires, dreams, or even bargaining power to acquire a product or service. In the business environment, managers and colleagues need this as a tool to function in teams. And I almost forgot, at the home front, couples need the art of persuasion to carry partners along with an idea or decision. Still on the homefront, kids have also developed the skillset to marshall out their plans to their parents. In a few words, the art of persuasion is an enviable school in every domain by everyone.
Everyone seems to be conversing with each other. Human nature dictates that we constantly communicate, bargain, and market to get others to adopt our point of view. The only goal is to alter one’s perspective or way of thinking about a subject. New managers and leaders need to understand the contribution of various factors that go into making a good, persuasive speaker:
Articulation
Everyone should have a fundamental understanding of how humans’ speech mechanisms function. He should be able to modify his speaking style to fit the situation.
(2) Vocabulary
To make a point, the speaker should be able to pronounce each word clearly and refrain from using slang. He should avoid slurring his words and using filler words like “I think,” “you know,” and other similar expressions.
(3) Tone One should avoid speaking in a single tone all the time because it will make their speech sound highly boring and repetitive. To sound intriguing, one should vary their voice.
(4) Pitch One should alter the voice’s wavelength and frequency. A skilled speaker constantly modifies their voice’s tone and pitch to keep their audience on their toes. This prevents speeches from becoming monotonous.
(5) Delivery time A speaker who is effective has control over his delivery tempo. 150–200 words per minute
(5) Delivery time
An effective speaker has control over his delivery tempo. It is common to write at a rate of 150 to 200 words per minute. A faster speed may appear disingenuous, while a slower pace may sound like “lecturing!”
By tape-recording the speech, it is feasible to count the number of words said every minute. The human brain is capable of hearing up to 400 words per minute. If the speaker is slow, the listener’s mind may wander. 67
(6) Interruptions
A speaking pause is an important tool. When speakers wish to emphasize a word, they should pause shortly before it. If they wish to underline the significance of a word, they should pause just before and after it.
(7) Nonverbal communication
The powerful language of movements, sounds, and expressions never lies and never deceives those who understand it thoroughly. Proper posture is essential; drooping shoulders and cross-legged seating postures will not appear sincere.
Volume (8)
Screaming throughout a speech might make it sound harsh and boring. A few well-intended yells to the final row, on the other hand, can enliven a speech and electrify the situation. It can be an effective persuasion tactic, but it must be used with caution.
(9) Voice quality
The impact of one’s voice on the listener can be used to assess its quality. Everyone must work hard to keep the
(10) Speaking variety
A skilled speaker continually changing the tone, pitch, tempo, and loudness of his or her voice to make it sound engaging. Every 30 seconds or after every paragraph, a change should be introduced!
Variety in voice delivery keeps listeners interested because it sounds intriguing. As listeners focus on his voice, the speaker should let the words speak for themselves.