Mastering the Art of Persuasion

Do you struggle in talking confidently and persuading people? Struggle no more, here are proven tips in the light of the teaching of great Aristotle.

Mastering the art of persuasion is a valuable skill that can help you influence and convince others effectively. Remember, we are talking about ethical persuasion only that is about influencing others for positive outcomes and mutual benefits, not manipulating or deceiving them. Follow these simple tips to improve your communication in general and persuasion in specific.

Build Subject Authority “Ethos”

According to Aristotle, persuasive speech has three core components. These components work hand in hand to deliver the intended objective. The first one is?ethos, i.e., character who is delivering the speech. As humans, we are more inclined to accept the facts from the mouth of someone who has perfect authority over the subject under discussion. For example, during a discussion on inflation, an economist will be a stronger opponent than a medical professional. So, the takeaway is, build your subject authority where you are likely to persuade people and followers.

?Storytelling “Pathos”

The second most important component is “pathos” i.e., emotions. According to the Greek philosopher, our ability to judge and make decisions is not at the same level when we are in an emotional state. Simply putting, pathos is the attempt to sway an audience by appealing to powerful emotions such as love and fear. This can be implied that the art of storytelling is very crucial. No matter how dry or technical the subject under discussion is, it’s easier to get your point across if you tell mesmerizing and relatable stories.

Present Facts “Logos”

The third critical component is logos or reasoning. Persuasion becomes easy when logical and established facts and figures are presented to the audience. In other words, to win a narrative, you have to push your listeners to choose between you and your counterpart and the audience shall be inclined towards more truthful arguments once the person making them has established an emotional connection. In a different connection, generally the emotions/pathos are great tool to deliver the facts/logos.

This also covers the aspect of counter arguments and responding to the counterparty’s narrative in rational ad structured manner.

Be ready to play with the man, not the ball

In reality, sometime people play with the man and not with the ball. That’s equivalent to a foul thus destroying the ethos/character presenting the pathos and logos leaving them useless. In those very limited and short-lived windows, it becomes necessary to respond in kind, i.e., play with the man and not with the ball.

Be Confident and Assertive

Confidence is persuasive, but avoid arrogance. Speak clearly, assertively, and maintain good posture and eye contact to convey conviction in your beliefs. This shall cover the aspects of nonverbal communication that are sometime more important than the verbal communication.

Not all Games are the zero sums

In majority of the real-life problems, the solutions can be a win-win situation. But often, we indulge in counter arguments and ego so much that we forget this aspect completely. Try to have a fresh look at the problem and show that your proposed solution benefits both parties involved. People are more likely to agree when they feel they are gaining something from the deal.

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Good luck.?