How to Communicate Persuasively

Effective communication goes a long way.

Persuasive communication is a must-have skill for professionals in business, media, and politics. Persuasive communication presents a succinct argument in a firm tone and a clear voice. Persuasive communication may be written, spoken formally, or spoken informally. While there are many mediums over which communication can occur, the basic rules of persuasive communication are the same for each one. To communicate persuasively, you must research thoroughly, speak clearly, and write succinctly, all while maintaining a confident tone.

Instructions

1. Write your communication objective. Spell out your your goal in one or two sentences, clarifying what type of communication you are attempting. The criteria for persuasive communication changes depending on communication objectives. Persuasive negotiation demands the ability to ask a fair price. Political speech requires the ability to play to the hearts and minds of a crowd. Persuasive writing demands succinct language and a firm tone.

2. Research the composition of your audience. Read about the demographics of the reader base if you are writing an article. Obtain and look over the attendee list if you are giving a speech. Read the corporate biographies of the other business' representatives if you are negotiating.

3. Write a list of key words that appeal to your audience. Use management jargon (e.g. "proactive," "forward looking") for communication with businesspeople. Use academic jargon (e.g. "isms") when communicating with academics and literary professionals. Use down-to-earth language when communicating with a general audience.

4. Research the content of your communications thoroughly. Make sure that you know your material inside and out. No matter how eloquent you are, factual errors impede the persuasiveness of your writing and speaking. Read newspapers, encyclopedias, journals, and books on a topic before you attempt a persuasive speech on it.

5. Write an outline of your speech or composition. Include an introduction and a conclusion if you are attempting a pre written speech or article. Write a series of organized talking points if you are preparing for a negotiation or interview. This will make your communication appear organized and professional.

6. Present your communication in an authoritative tone. Speak loudly, clearly, and from the chest. Write clearly and succinctly. Enunciate words clearly and with appropriate emphasis. The goal of written content is to say as much as possible using the smallest number of words. Practice speeches and talking points over and over, so that when you present them to someone else, you can focus on tone and body language rather than the actual words.

7. Answer any questions that may arise. Provide qualifying information when you answer yes or no questions. Provide at least a minute's worth of material for open ended questions. Ask for clarification if you do not understand a question. Do not refuse to answer a question unless it is completely off topic or inappropriate.

References

• Street Directory; How to Speak Persuasively; Vincent Stevenson; 2007
• Copywriter's Crubicle; Writing Persuasively 1 -- Do You Want to Communicate or Confuse? Nov 2008