Build a logical case

There are many speeches, pitches and presentations that people make every day at work. When it comes to building a logical case for court or to present to the board or a client they come unstuck.

There are certain do’s and don,ts when you need to state a logical case. Follow these guidelines and be more convincing.

DO

• Base arguments on truths, specifics and evidence. State this at the beginning of your presentation.
• Define your terms into stepping stones as you work towards proving your point. There must be a logical flow to your presentation.
• Focus on proving a single point at a time. Rigorously avoid side issues.
• Use short, sharp sentences to avoid being miss quoted.
• Check the accuracy of all your facts. Hearsay will not carry much weight. Use laws, by-laws, defining terms, legal points, terms and conditions and any means to state the facts.
• Double check any technical terms for double meanings.
• Statistics can proof history, projected outcome or a context.
• Have proof ie photos, recording, documents and anything that will support your argument.
• For each point have a clear, concise and solid reason. If you do not have a reason, you have an opinion.
• Deliver with a firm tone, positive body language and be strong with a sense of conviction.
• Let the audience think with rhetorical questions. “Are females not doing the same job?” “Should they then need to get paid less?” This creates dramatic dialogue and clarifies opposing issues.
• Clearly state the outcome you seek. I want …. We are looking for a resolution by … The amount we need …
• Always be courteous and positive.

How do you reason against facts?

DONT’S

• Do not get emotional. With a logical case, emotion is not your best appeal.
• When you make it complicated and too technical, you can dilute your argument.
• Try not to make it personal with long stories and explanations. Get to the punch line.
• Avoid statements that will alienate all other listeners.
• Steer clear of humour anecdote and non-descriptive language for dramatic surprises.
• Do not share your opinions if you do not have a strong reason.

Feel free to share your points on how you build a logical case.

Trevor Ambrose