Here's how you can use logical reasoning to engage your audience during a speech.

Draw analogies where people can relate. Always simplify to drive a point. Technology and technical conversations can be overwhelming, but they can be better understood when explained in the form of traditional real estate, especially when digital real estate like cloud computing can be similar. For example, renting an apartment is akin to subscribing to a cloud service.

Oftentimes, the most effective foundation upon which to build your presentation is the singular outcome you want your presentation to help your audience achieve. Essentially, start your preparation and presentation by identifying exactly what you want your audience to be able to do and why it matters. Then, as you open, share those things. Tell people what you will talk about and why it matters to them. In practice, I call this the "So What" test. I imagine myself in the audience, and I ask myself, "If I were listening to this, why would it matter to me?" Then, I answer this question with ruthless candor. Put aside the reasons why someone *should* care and explore why they *do* care. Start there and take them on a journey.

Persuasive speech convinces the audience to accept the speaker's point of view Persuasive speeches rely on 3 types of rhetoric : Ethos Pathos Logos Ethos is when the speaker proves to the audience that they are an expert on the topic Pathos is the speaker's ability to appeal to the emotions of the audience Logos is the speaker's ability to use logic and reasoning to convince the audience Self brainstorming helps to anticipate counter arguments Set a goal so that you can focus your argument on consistent objective Understand your audience and take right steps to influence them Determine whether the audience responds to logic, emotion, authority Aim for at least 3 or 4 supporting points Make a strong, convincing first opinion

To share something new to the audience and for the audience to follow the argument that we want to put forth, we need to scaffold their understanding from what they know to what they do not know. I find that logical arguments work well if the audience shares the common basic understanding of the topic as the speaker, but when you want to introduce something new, unless the evidence is so compelling, we need to tap on the emotional reaction by the audience as well. Human beings are not 100% without emotion so the most technically inclined audience will still respond to the basic human emotions.

Start your speech by building a solid foundation. Clearly define key concepts and outline the basic premises to ensure your audience understands the core of your argument. Like a strong building, logical reasoning depends on a stable base, enabling your argument to develop and resonate effectively.

I have found that connecting the dots by applying a different industry's frameworks into another industry to be interesting to an audience who has seen and heard too much of the common frameworks used in their own industry. So it can be refreshing to see how another professional tackles say ethical issues which all professionals face although the specific nature of the ethical conflicts or breaches vary across industries.

Thinking out of the box and challenging assumptions is a way to get the audience to think differently about the subject matter. But it should be used judiciously and with caution. This is because if you challenge the orthodoxy of the assumptions that the audience who may be domain experts in engineering, finance, IT etc, you will face pushback and resistance. Use that engagement (whether positive or negative) to drive further inquiry and discussion about your subject matter but use with tact as people can hang on to their cherished world view and assumptions very tightly.

Engage your audience by challenging common assumptions and offering fresh perspectives on familiar topics. Like a plot twist, this sparks curiosity and encourages critical thinking. By introducing unexpected yet logical turns, you keep listeners attentive, promoting active engagement and showcasing your depth of understanding.

Public speaking requires both logic and emotion to convince the audience of your message. What I learnt from better speakers was to use the approach, tell a story then give examples to make your point. Whilst for less technical audiences, we may use anecdotal examples to illustrate our point, for more technical audiences, the evidence should appeal to the domain and knowledge of the audience.

To build credibility, support your arguments with solid evidence. Use relevant examples to prove your points, much like witnesses backing a case in court. Providing clear proof makes your reasoning more persuasive, helping your audience see the validity of your argument and increasing their likelihood of being convinced.

I agree that addressing counterarguments is essential, as it not only refutes opposing views but also significantly strengthens your own position. By thoughtfully considering different perspectives, you demonstrate a deeper understanding of the topic, which boosts your credibility. This proactive approach not only solidifies your argument but also builds trust with your audience by showing that you respect their critical thinking and have prepared thoroughly.

Use logical reasoning to inspire action by connecting your argument's conclusion to a clear call to action. This gives your speech purpose, moving beyond sharing information to motivating change. When the audience sees the logical outcome, they're more likely to be compelled to take meaningful action.