INFLUENCING USING REASONING

Reasoning is a style of influence that relies on data and facts to gain consensus. When reasoning is used correctly, one relies on data to highlight the benefits of a proposal and gain people's support.

The 'Because' experiment, which we will discuss in the next newsletter, is perhaps the most explicit demonstration of the effectiveness of reasoning.? Let us see together how and what is meant by the use of Reasoning.

Reasoning is "the drawing of inferences or conclusions through the use of reason". Reasoning uses existing knowledge, data and facts to come to conclusions, make predictions and even structure explanations.

Without data, decision-making becomes less objective and relies mainly on emotions and intuitions, which are not always practical.

However, the use of reasoning as an influencing style has its downsides. For example, poor or inconclusive data weaken logical arguments, making it more difficult to convince people. The other side may also have equally convincing facts and data in favour of the opposing view. In such cases, the decision-making process becomes less clear.

Let us look together at the advantages of using data-driven reasoning:

1. Demonstrates your analytical skills

These skills have become increasingly valuable and urgent as the world has become more data-driven. Organisations need people who can make sense of the huge amounts of data collected to guide future actions. ?

2. Helps structure conversations

Data-driven decision making follows a logical step-by-step approach. This rational flow of ideas helps the discussion by focusing on solving one problem at a time. ?

3. Provides an audit trail of decisions?

How was a particular decision arrived at? Was it based on intuition or on precise, analytical data??

4. Numbers don't lie!

Logical reasoning reduces emotional decision-making by making decisions based on data instead of personal feelings.

5. Improves reputation

People who use data and logical reasoning are perceived as more rational and objective.?

Don't miss the next newsletter, we will talk about the 'Because' experiment, which is perhaps the clearest demonstration of how effective reasoning can be and how incredibly powerful it can be to use this word in your communication!?