How can you persuade your team and management with effective communication?

2 Use the right channel

Depending on the context and purpose of your communication, you may choose different channels to deliver your message. For example, you may use email, phone, video call, presentation, report, or face-to-face meeting. Each channel has its advantages and disadvantages, and you need to consider factors such as urgency, complexity, sensitivity, and feedback. Choose the channel that best suits your message, audience, and goal, and use it effectively and appropriately.

3 Structure your message

A clear and logical structure can help you communicate your message effectively and persuasively. You can use various frameworks and models to organize your message, such as the AIDA model (Attention, Interest, Desire, Action), the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result), or the SCQA framework (Situation, Complication, Question, Answer). These frameworks can help you capture your audience's attention, explain your reasoning, provide evidence, and call for action.

4 Use positive and assertive language

The language you use can influence how your audience perceives and responds to your message. You want to use positive and assertive language that conveys confidence, respect, and optimism. Avoid negative and passive language that may sound weak, vague, or defensive. For example, instead of saying "I think this is a good idea", say "This is a good idea because...". Instead of saying "Sorry for the delay", say "Thank you for your patience". Use active verbs, specific words, and polite expressions.

5 Listen and engage

Communication is not a one-way process. You also need to listen and engage with your audience to understand their feedback, questions, and concerns. Listening shows that you care about their opinions and perspectives, and that you are open to dialogue and collaboration. Engaging means that you ask relevant and meaningful questions, acknowledge and address their points, and invite them to participate and contribute. Listening and engaging can help you build rapport, trust, and consensus with your audience.

6 Follow up and follow through

The last step of effective communication is to follow up and follow through with your audience. Following up means that you confirm and summarize the main points and actions agreed upon in your communication, and that you provide any additional information or clarification needed. Following through means that you deliver on your promises and commitments, and that you update and inform your audience on the progress and results. Following up and following through can help you demonstrate your credibility, professionalism, and accountability.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?