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Persuasion Skills

Objectives
• Explain What is Persuasion
• Explain How Persuasion Works
• Describe the Importance of Persuasion
• Explain the Steps of the Persuasion Process
• Explain the Role of Communication in Persuasion
• Explain How to Use AIDA for Persuasive Writing
• Explain the Rhetoric of Persuasion
• Explain the Major Principles of Persuasion
• Explain How to Persuade Different Personalities
• Explain the Use Positive Body Language for Persuasion
• Explain the Framework Theories for Applying Persuasion
• Explain Strategies for Developing Persuasion Skills
• Explain the Storytelling Technique of Persuasion
• Explain the Steps for Building Rapport
• List the Characteristics of a Good Persuader
Introduction

Gerard works as a Senior Frank Smith is Gerard’s


Sales Executive at Leonia Inc. Regional Manager at Leonia
Inc.
Introduction

• Gerard has been recently


offered a position in one
of Leonia’s overseas
offices in China for 2
years.

• However, Gerard is not


very sure he should take
up this offer due to
various personal reasons.
Introduction

• He has two children who


study in high school and are
well settled and happy in
their current school and
among friends.

• Also, Gerard knows that his


working wife would not be
too happy to leave her job
to move abroad to live in an
unknown culture.
Introduction

• Frank’s boss has given


Frank the responsibility of
convincing Gerard of
taking up the position in
China.

• Let us look at a
conversation between
Frank and Gerard with
regard to this situation.
Introduction

Work’s going great Frank,


but you must have heard
about the position they
offered to me in one of
their offices in China.

Hi Gerard!
How’s work
going?
Introduction

Sure, it would feel good to discuss Oh yes! I know about


the situation with someone. I that and I have wanted
can’t broach the subject at home to speak to you about
before I myself have a clear idea the same. Is this a good
about what I want to do. time to discuss it?
Introduction

So, I heard that you


have been offered a
position as Area
Manager.

Yes, that’s
right.
Introduction

So, why are you thinking twice about


such a great offer? You know it would
take you at least another five years to
get to that position in this office. This
place is just so saturated in terms of
opportunities to grow.

I know that but I


have certain
personal issues
that are making
What
me confused
issues?
about this.
Introduction
It’s just that my kids are in high
school and are well-settled here in
their current school. They have a nice
and close group of friends. I do not
want to move them to a new school
especially at such an important
juncture of their school days.
They will soon be
pursuing their
graduation in
college. I do not I see; I can
want them to face understand
the hassles of that.
adjusting and
settling in a new
school in an alien
culture.
Introduction
That’s not all. My wife works as a
Senior Technical Writer at Howard That’s a real shame but you do have
Inc. She hopes to be promoted to the a point there. Your kids and wife
position of Team Lead this year. She won’t be happy about moving to
has really worked hard for this China at this juncture in their happy
promotion. I just cannot ask her to and settled lives.
give it all up to move to China.
Introduction

Hey! I have an idea. Why don’t you


speak to the Management and let
them know that these are the
issues that you have and you can
take up this offer but only on
certain conditions.

Now, you can


understand my
confusion. I am
so tense; I just
can’t make up my
mind.
Introduction

You can tell them that you would be


willing to move to China if and only
if they allow you a week’s leave
every six months to come back and
meet your family.

And what
are those?
Introduction
I am sure they would. They are really
hard pressed upon finding someone
from the head office here to fit the
role of Area Manager in their
Chinese office.
They need
someone who
can really take
Do you up the challenge
think they to develop the
would market and
agree to it? clients in that
area. They know
they have
chosen the best
man when they
chose you.
Introduction

True! Moreover, it would also help


you get into a leadership role where
you would be handling a team of
your own. It is a golden opportunity
and one that I think you should not
miss.

Thanks Frank. I
too am looking You would not
forward to get a chance to
getting into such get into a
a role. It would leadership role
be such a great so easily in this
move for my office. You
career. know that,
right?
Introduction
Sure, you should. I would also
Oh yes! I know that. There are so personally speak to them and
many people competing for such convince them. All the same, be
roles in this office. I think I should ready to go to take up this offer and
speak to the Management openly move to China. After all it is just for
about my issues and also suggest the two years.
plausible solution that you gave. After that, they
have promised
that they will
move you back
here. Think
about the global
market
experience that
you will get in
this position. It is
an offer too
good to be true.
Introduction

Yes Frank, you are absolutely right.


Why didn’t I think of all this before? I
could definitely move temporarily for You are most welcome
two years to China and then come anytime! Go for it!
back while my family can stay here
during that period.
My career would
get a fresh new
boost and their
lives would also
not get affected. I
think it is a great
idea. Thanks for
talking to me
Frank. I just
couldn’t think like
you.
Introduction
You have seen from the Frank persuades Gerard to move
conversation between Frank and from his confused thoughts to
Gerard how Frank persuades thinking very clear thoughts of
Gerard to take up the offer in the taking up the offer. This is the
China office. power of persuasion.
Introduction

Persuasion is crucial for


Let us learn about
success in every walk of life
whether personal or ‘Persuasion Skills’
professional. in detail.
Objectives
•• Explain
Explain What
What is
is Persuasion
Persuasion
• Explain How Persuasion Works
• Describe the Importance of Persuasion
• Explain the Steps of the Persuasion Process
• Explain the Role of Communication in Persuasion
• Explain How to Use AIDA for Persuasive Writing
• Explain the Rhetoric of Persuasion
• Explain the Major Principles of Persuasion
• Explain How to Persuade Different Personalities
• Explain the Use Positive Body Language for Persuasion
• Explain the Framework Theories for Applying Persuasion
• Explain Strategies for Developing Persuasion Skills
• Explain the Storytelling Technique of Persuasion
• Explain the Steps for Building Rapport
• List the Characteristics of a Good Persuader
What is Persuasion?
What is Persuasion?
The Art of Persuasion
Persuasion is an art; you can get
better and better with it.
If you feel that you don’t have an
innate talent for persuading
others, don’t be disappointed
because these skills can be honed
and developed with the proper
training and practice.
People who always speak good
things may feel that they are good
persuaders, but that is not always
the case. Persuasion is all about
understanding what you want and
what the other person wants, and
then coming up with a win-win
scenario.
The Art of Persuasion
Persuasion happens everywhere –
it’s omnipresent. You may have to
persuade people for anything –
right from the deadlines of a
project to which person will do
what chores at home.
In the real world, it is sometimes
difficult to ascertain whether your
persuasion skills are good or bad.
You may think that you are a good
persuader, but in reality, it may be
just the opposite.
Even before you persuade, you
will have to know what can people
be persuaded for .
Objectives
• Explain What is Persuasion
•• Explain
Explain How
How Persuasion
Persuasion Works
Works
• Describe the Importance of Persuasion
• Explain the Steps of the Persuasion Process
• Explain the Role of Communication in Persuasion
• Explain How to Use AIDA for Persuasive Writing
• Explain the Rhetoric of Persuasion
• Explain the Major Principles of Persuasion
• Explain How to Persuade Different Personalities
• Explain the Use Positive Body Language for Persuasion
• Explain the Framework Theories for Applying Persuasion
• Explain Strategies for Developing Persuasion Skills
• Explain the Storytelling Technique of Persuasion
• Explain the Steps for Building Rapport
• List the Characteristics of a Good Persuader
How does Persuasion Work?
The given flowchart shows the way persuasion works through two different
routes that may follow after an attempt to persuade is made.

Persuasion Audience Processing Persuasion


Attempt Factors Approach Outcome

High Deep Processing:


Lasting change
motivation & focused on the
that resists fading
ability quality of the
and counter
to think about message
attacks
message arguments
Message
Superficial
Low Processing: focused Temporary
motivation & on surface features change that is
such as the susceptible to
ability
communicator’s fading and
to think about attractiveness or counter attacks
message no. of arguments
Objectives
• Explain What is Persuasion
• Explain How Persuasion Works
•• Describe
Describe the
the Importance
Importance of
of Persuasion
Persuasion
• Explain the Steps of the Persuasion Process
• Explain the Role of Communication in Persuasion
• Explain How to Use AIDA for Persuasive Writing
• Explain the Rhetoric of Persuasion
• Explain the Major Principles of Persuasion
• Explain How to Persuade Different Personalities
• Explain the Use Positive Body Language for Persuasion
• Explain the Framework Theories for Applying Persuasion
• Explain Strategies for Developing Persuasion Skills
• Explain the Storytelling Technique of Persuasion
• Explain the Steps for Building Rapport
• List the Characteristics of a Good Persuader
Importance of Persuasion
Persuading people can be beneficial to you in several ways such as:

It helps to deal with people so that they feel important and appreciated.

It helps to handle people without making them feel manipulated.

It helps you to make someone want to do what you want them to.

It helps in arousing a want to follow you and your instructions in others.

It will help you to learn how to make people like you.

It can help you to win people over to your way of thinking.

It helps to change people without causing offense or arousing resentment.


How to Persuade Others?
It is important that you should create a good impression of yourself among others in
order to be able to persuade them. The World forms its opinion of us largely from
the opinion we have of ourselves.

The following are a few ways through which you can create a good impression:

• Don’t wear a disguise

• Don’t knock the other party

• Learn to Communicate Effectively

• Don’t try to be perfect

• Get people talking about themselves

• Don’t tease and don’t be sarcastic

Let us look at each in detail.


Don’t Wear a Disguise
• Don’t wear a disguise

Don’t wear a disguise:

People are much smarter than you realize. The conscious


mind may not be smart enough to analyze and see through
the disguise that people wear, but our subconscious mind
does identify the fakeness and disguise that people put on.
Don’t Knock the Other Party
• Don’t knock the other party

Don’t knock the other party:

Never try to humiliate others if you want to make a good impression.


Instead, boost your own image. Not only do people dislike negative
talk, but you are also setting a negative environment to persuade.
Learn to Communicate Effectively
• Learn to Communicate Effectively

Learn to Communicate Effectively:

One thing good persuaders have in common is skill in using words. Learn
to communicate openly, honestly and passionately to persuade people.
Don’t Try to be Perfect
• Don’t try to be perfect

Don’t try to be perfect:

No one can fascinate every minute. When you try to be perfect,


you appear to be fake and shallow. People will not believe you
and will not be able to trust you.
Get People Talking about Themselves
• Get people talking about themselves

Get people talking about themselves:

If you want to persuade others, then show a genuine interest in other


people’s opinions and views. If you can stimulate others to talk, you will
acquire a reputation as a good conversationalist as well as a good
person and will have greater persuasion power.
Don’t Tease and Don’t be Sarcastic
• Don’t tease and don’t be sarcastic

Don’t tease and don’t be sarcastic:

Teasing and sarcastic remarks are both aimed at the self esteem of
others. Do not tease or pass sarcastic comments as they threaten the
self-esteem of the other person and make you less likable. This will
make it more difficult for you to be able to persuade the other person.
Role of Persuasion in Success

One of the key traits of a successful person in professional


as well as personal front is one who can persuade people.
Persuading people helps you to lead the people to your
way of thinking and helps to prevent unnecessary conflicts
and resentments. There is a very strong linear relationship
between success and persuasion.
Persuasion and Change of Attitude
There are three main changes of attitude that take place such as follows:
Cognitive Change: Such a
change in attitude takes
place when a person receives
new information from others
or media.

Affective Change: Such a change


in attitude takes place through a
direct experience with the
attitude object.

Behavioral Change: Such a change


in attitude takes place when a
person is forced to behave in a way
different than normal.
Use Persuasion to Change Attitudes of Others

The only way you will be able to persuade others is when you
learn to control and change the attitudes of other people.
When you change the attitude of other people, their actions
and hence their behavior will automatically come under your
control. When a person’s attitude become favorable towards
you, they are more likely to comply with your wishes and agree
with your opinions and ideas.
Use Persuasion to Change Attitudes of Others
Following are some of the key points to keep in mind in order to change the
attitudes of other people:

Watch your posture at all times.


We have to adopt the
attitude we want others
to express.

People react and respond


in a like manner to the
attitude and action
expressed by you. Speak out with confidence and grit.
Use Persuasion to Change Attitudes of Others
Following are some of the key points to keep in mind in order to change the
attitudes of other people:

Hold your head up and display a


positive body language at all Remember to be
times. enthusiastic because
enthusiasm is contagious
and spreads from one
person to another and so
does indifference and lack of
enthusiasm.

Confidence breeds
confidence. If we believe
in our self, and act as if
we believe in our self, Begin today to develop an enthusiastic,
others will believe is us. confident attitude and manner.
Factors affecting Attitude Change

The ‘formation of attitude’ and ‘change


of attitude’ are not separate
phenomenon but are interwoven. Based
on the changing needs and interests,
people tend to accept, change or give up
on their existing attitudes. Hence,
whenever a person faces any kind of
changes in his needs or interests, his
attitude may undergo a change.
Factors affecting Attitude Change

There are various factors that affect


whether a change or acceptance of a new
attitude will take place such as follows:
• Who is the communicator?
• How is the communication presented?
• How is the communication perceived by
the audience?
• What is the credibility of the
communicator?
• What are the conditions under which
the knowledge was received?
MCQ

Q. Which of the following causes a


change in attitude through a direct
experience with the attitude
object?

Click on the
radio button
to select the
correct
answer!
MCQ

Q. Which of the following causes a


change in attitude through a direct
experience with the attitude
object?
MCQ

Q. Which of the following causes a


change in attitude through a direct
experience with the attitude
object?
Objectives
• Explain What is Persuasion
• Explain How Persuasion Works
• Describe the Importance of Persuasion
•• Explain
Explain the
the Steps
Steps of
of the
the Persuasion
Persuasion Process
Process
• Explain the Role of Communication in Persuasion
• Explain How to Use AIDA for Persuasive Writing
• Explain the Rhetoric of Persuasion
• Explain the Major Principles of Persuasion
• Explain How to Persuade Different Personalities
• Explain the Use Positive Body Language for Persuasion
• Explain the Framework Theories for Applying Persuasion
• Explain Strategies for Developing Persuasion Skills
• Explain the Storytelling Technique of Persuasion
• Explain the Steps for Building Rapport
• List the Characteristics of a Good Persuader
Steps of the Persuasion Process
As proposed by Professor Jay Conger, the following are the steps to be followed
in the Persuasion Process:
• Step 1: Establish Credibility and Trust in Yourself
• Step 2: Find a Basis of Common Ground
• Step 3: Provide Vivid Proof
• Step 4: Connect at an Emotional Level

Let us look at each in detail.


Step 1: Establish Credibility and Trust in Yourself
Step 1: Establish Credibility and Trust in Yourself:

The first step of the ‘Persuasion Process’ is to establish credibility and trust in
yourself in the minds of the audience. You can do this by using your expertise and
knowledge in the field that you are speaking about, by building and then appealing
to the strong relationships that you share with your audience, by carefully listening
to others and their opinions and by using your history of good judgement to appeal
to each person’s individual personality.
Step 2: Find a Basis of Common Ground
Step 2: Find a Basis of Common Ground:

You should ‘find a basis of common ground’ between you and the other person
whom you want to persuade. So, you should find a basis that can be agreed to by
all parties for reaching a mutual understanding. First clear and clarify the benefits
that your opinions have to offer and then look for mutually beneficial solutions for
you as well as the other party. Once you have found the mutual benefits, you
should clearly state and define the advantages and benefits to the other party.
Step 3: Provide Vivid Proof
Step 3: Provide Vivid Proof:

This step involves presenting your audience with vivid or clear proofs to support
your statements and opinion. You can use logic and facts to support your
statements, using imagery and metaphors to help other person compare and
understand your opinions. You can use stories and examples to help other person
associate with your ideas and feelings. You may use numbers to prove your
statements by presenting spreadsheets to support your statements.
Step 4: Connect at an Emotional Level
Step 4: Connect at an Emotional Level:

This step involves connecting with the other person at an emotional level. You
should understand the tangents or aspects to the person’s personality. You should
show empathy and your respect for their feelings and opinions. You should show
your commitment, honesty and dedication. In order to connect at an emotional
level, you should have a high degree of self-awareness so that you can understand
your own emotions as well as the other person’s emotions.
Objectives
• Explain What is Persuasion
• Explain How Persuasion Works
• Describe the Importance of Persuasion
• Explain the Steps of the Persuasion Process
•• Explain
Explain the
the Role
Role of
of Communication
Communication inin Persuasion
Persuasion
• Explain How to Use AIDA for Persuasive Writing
• Explain the Rhetoric of Persuasion
• Explain the Major Principles of Persuasion
• Explain How to Persuade Different Personalities
• Explain the Use Positive Body Language for Persuasion
• Explain the Framework Theories for Applying Persuasion
• Explain Strategies for Developing Persuasion Skills
• Explain the Storytelling Technique of Persuasion
• Explain the Steps for Building Rapport
• List the Characteristics of a Good Persuader
Role of Communication in Persuasion

Effective Communication is important to


persuade people because:
• It is about how information is sent and received
between people
• It is crucial for working successfully with others
• It enables to maintain relationships
• It allows to accomplish tasks while working with both
individuals and groups
• It motivates
• It helps to overcome obstacles
• It creates a comfortable, trustful and psychologically
safe feeling
Dos of Communication for Persuasion
The following are some of the ways that you can use constructive
communication for persuasion:
• Validation of each other
• Sensitive listening
• Dual perspective
• Recognize other’s concerns
• Seek clarification
• Infrequent interruptions
• Focus on specific issues
• Compromises and contracts
• Useful meta communication
• Summarizing the
concerns for
both partners
Don’ts of Communication for Persuasion
The following are some of the don'ts of communication and how to avoid
using destructive communication for persuasion:

• Disconfirmation of each other


• Poor listening
• Preoccupation with self
• Cross-complaining
• Hostile mind reading
• Frequent interruptions
• Everything is thrown in
• Counterproposals
• Excessive meta communication
• Self-summarizing
Verbal Techniques for Effective Persuasion
Verbal Techniques for Effective Persuasion

The following verbal techniques should be considered and carefully put to


use while trying to persuade an audience:

• Voice

• Language

• Body Language

• Tone and Humor

Let us look at each in detail.


Voice
• Voice
Your primary tool for persuading while speaking
to an audience is your voice. When speaking to
an audience, think about projection, pace and
Projection modulation.

Pace

Modulation

Let us look at each in detail.


Voice: Projection
• Voice
Your primary tool for persuading while speaking
to an audience is your voice. When speaking to
an audience, think about projection, pace and
Projection
Projection modulation.

Projection:

Pace The volume of your voice should be loud


enough that everyone can hear you. At the
beginning of the session, ask the audience if
they can hear you and adjust your volume
Modulation accordingly.

Let us look at each in detail.


Voice: Pace
• Voice
Your primary tool for persuading while speaking
to an audience is your voice. When speaking to
an audience, think about projection, pace and
Projection modulation.

Pace:

Pace
Pace Make sure you are not going so fast that
people cannot keep up, or so slow that
people get bored and stop paying attention.
You can also use strategic pauses, such as
Modulation pausing just before an important point in
order to emphasize it.

Let us look at each in detail.


Voice: Modulation
• Voice
Your primary tool for persuading while speaking
to an audience is your voice. When speaking to
an audience, think about projection, pace and
Projection modulation.

Modulation:

Pace Varying your inflection and volume will keep


your audience's attention, whether your
natural speaking voice is high or low, loud or
soft.
Modulation
Modulation

Let us look at each in detail.


Language
• Language

• Language:

o Avoid using technical terms,


explain the concept and difficult
terms.
o Use analogies to explain difficult
concepts or ideas.
Body Language
• Body Language
• Body Language:

o Develop eye contact with your


audience.
o Use gestures to emphasize
points and keep your audience's
attention.
o Stand up. It keeps your
audience's attention.
o Walk around to keep your
audience's attention.
o Relax! Be conscious of your
body posture throughout the
session.
o Smile and laugh! It engages your
audience and makes you more
approachable.
Tone and Humor
• Tone and Humor

• Tone and Humor:

o Use your tone to convey an


infectious enthusiasm for the
topic.
o Be positive and upbeat and
don't focus on negatives or
difficulties.
o Incorporate humor into your
discussion, this will help you
build rapport with your
audience.
Tips for Effective Communication for Persuasion
The following are a few tips for effective communication for persuasion:

Show grace, when appropriate

Grant forgiveness or put


aside our own needs, if
possible
Honor yourself, your
audience and the
relationship
Aim for win-win discussions

Use bracketing to keep the


discussion focused
Be flexible
Both people should be psychologically
present and not rushed
Mange time during discussion
Focus on the overall 1 effectively
communication system
Delivery of the Persuasion Pitch
There are two ways in which a person may deliver or make a persuasion
pitch, such as follows:

Let us look at each in detail.


Effective/Positive Delivery of Persuasion Pitch
• Supportive: The persuasion pitch is delivered
in non-threatening and encouraging manner.
• Helpful: The persuasion pitch is meant to be
of value to the other person.
• Descriptive: The persuasion pitch focuses on
behavior that can be changed.
• Sensitive: The persuasion pitch takes into
consideration the other person and is
sensitive to their needs.
• Considerate: The persuasion pitch is intended
to not insult or demean.
• Direct: The persuasion pitch is focussed and
clear.
• Healthy timing: The persuasion pitch is given
at an opportune time.
• Thoughtful: The persuasion pitch is well
thought out rather than impulsive.
• Specific: The persuasion pitch is focused on
specific behaviors or events.
Ineffective/Negative Delivery of Persuasion Pitch
• Indirect: Ideas are not addressed directly and
persuasion pitch is vague.
• General: Persuasion pitch aims at broad issues
which cannot be defined.
• Insensitive: Such persuasion pitch has little
concern for needs of the other person.
• Attacking: Aggressive and focusing on the
weaknesses of the other person.
• Disrespectful: The persuasion pitch is
disrespectful and almost insulting.
• Poor timing: The persuasion pitch is not given at
an optimum time.
• Impulsive: The persuasion pitch is given
thoughtlessly, with little regard for the
consequences.
• Judgmental: Persuasion pitch is prejudiced and
judges personality rather than behavior.
• Selfish: The persuasion pitch meets only the
speaker’s needs, rather than the needs of the
Objectives
• Explain What is Persuasion
• Explain How Persuasion Works
• Describe the Importance of Persuasion
• Explain the Steps of the Persuasion Process
• Explain the Role of Communication in Persuasion
•• Explain
Explain How
How to
to Use
Use AIDA
AIDA for
for Persuasive
Persuasive Writing
Writing
• Explain the Rhetoric of Persuasion
• Explain the Major Principles of Persuasion
• Explain How to Persuade Different Personalities
• Explain the Use Positive Body Language for Persuasion
• Explain the Framework Theories for Applying Persuasion
• Explain Strategies for Developing Persuasion Skills
• Explain the Storytelling Technique of Persuasion
• Explain the Steps for Building Rapport
• List the Characteristics of a Good Persuader
How to Write Persuasively?

• Every kind of writing is written with one purpose in the mind


of the writer – to capture the readers’ attention.

• Whether it is a report, a presentation, an advertisement, an


email or any other form of writing, effective writing is the key
to success.

• The acronym AIDA is a handy tool for ensuring that your copy,
or other writing, grabs attention and is persuasive.

• Use the AIDA approach when you write a piece of text that has
the ultimate objective of persuading and getting others to take
action.
AIDA for Persuasive Writing
One of the most common tools for ‘Persuasive Writing’ is ‘AIDA’. The acronym,
AIDA stands for:

Let us look at each in detail.


Attention/Attract

Attention (or Attract)


You can grab people's
attention by using powerful
words, or a picture that will
catch the reader's eye and
make them stop and read
what you have to say next.
Interest

Interest
Gaining the reader's interest
is a deeper process than
grabbing their attention.
Help your readers to pick out
the messages that are
relevant to them quickly by
using bullets and
subheadings, and break up
the text to make the points
stand out.
Desire

Desire
The Interest and Desire
parts of AIDA go hand-in-
hand. Simultaneously to
building the reader’s
interest, you have to also
tell him how your message
can help them. The main
way of doing this is by
appealing to their personal
needs and wants.
Action

Action
Be very clear and specific
about what action you
want your readers to take.
Give them specific
information about the
action to take rather than
leaving it to them figure out
what to do for themselves.
Objectives
• Explain What is Persuasion
• Explain How Persuasion Works
• Describe the Importance of Persuasion
• Explain the Steps of the Persuasion Process
• Explain the Role of Communication in Persuasion
• Explain How to Use AIDA for Persuasive Writing
•• Explain
Explain the
the Rhetoric
Rhetoric of
of Persuasion
Persuasion
• Explain the Major Principles of Persuasion
• Explain How to Persuade Different Personalities
• Explain the Use Positive Body Language for Persuasion
• Explain the Framework Theories for Applying Persuasion
• Explain Strategies for Developing Persuasion Skills
• Explain the Storytelling Technique of Persuasion
• Explain the Steps for Building Rapport
• List the Characteristics of a Good Persuader
The Rhetoric of Persuasion

‘Rhetoric’ means using


language effectively to
please or persuade
someone. You can
understand that when
speaking to an audience
then the main goal of
communication is to please
or persuade the audience.
Some people are naturally
good at rhetoric while some
are not.
The Rhetoric of Persuasion
The great Greek Philosopher Aristotle proposed that there are three modes
of rhetoric that a person can use for persuasion. These three modes of
rhetoric are:

• Ethos

• Pathos

• Logos

Let us look at each in detail.


Ethos
• Ethos

• The word ‘Ethos’ is of Greek origin


and means the word ‘character’.

• ‘Ethos’ in rhetoric is a show of the


speaker’s character and/or
credentials.

• Hence, while using ‘Ethos’ in


rhetoric for persuading a person,
the speaker demonstrates his own
power and authority.

• As per Aristotle, ‘Ethos’ is the most


important attribute of any
communication.
Ethos
• Ethos

• The word ‘Ethos’ is of Greek origin


and means the word ‘character’.

• ‘Ethos’ in rhetoric is a show of the


speaker’s character and/or
credentials.

• Hence, while using ‘Ethos’ in


rhetoric for persuading a person,
the speaker demonstrates his own
power and authority.

• As per Aristotle, ‘Ethos’ is the most


important attribute of any
communication.
Pathos
• Pathos

• The word ‘Pathos’ is of Greek origin


and means the word ‘suffering’ or
‘experience’. ‘

• Pathos’ in rhetoric is an appeal


made by the speaker to emotions of
the audience.

• Such emotions thus stirred in the


audience are intended to move and
motivate the audience to take
action.

• You should use pathos effectively to


move people to act on your issue.
Pathos
• Pathos

• The word ‘Pathos’ is of Greek origin


and means the word ‘suffering’ or
‘experience’. ‘

• Pathos’ in rhetoric is an appeal


made by the speaker to emotions of
the audience.

• Such emotions thus stirred in the


audience are intended to move and
motivate the audience to take
action.

• You should use pathos effectively to


move people to act on your issue.
Logos
• Logos

• The word ‘Logos’ is of Greek origin


and means the word ‘reasoning’.

• ‘Logos’ in rhetoric is an appeal


made by a writer or speaker to the
reader or listener’s logical
reasoning.

• You can use ‘Logos’ to add


credibility to your argument when
you build your argument using basic
building blocks of common sense.
Logos
• Logos

• The word ‘Logos’ is of Greek origin


and means the word ‘reasoning’.

• ‘Logos’ in rhetoric is an appeal


made by a writer or speaker to the
reader or listener’s logical
reasoning.

• You can use ‘Logos’ to add


credibility to your argument when
you build your argument using basic
building blocks of common sense.
Real Life Example

Let us now look at a


real life example to
understand the role of
rhetoric of ‘Ethos’ and
‘Logos’ in persuasion.
Real Life Example

• The word ‘Ethos’ is of


Greek origin and means
the word ‘character’.

• ‘Ethos’ in rhetoric is a
show of the speaker’s
character and/or
credentials.
Real Life Example

• As per Aristotle, ‘Ethos’ is


the most important
attribute of any
communication.

• Hence, while using


‘Ethos’ in rhetoric for
persuading a person, the
speaker demonstrates
his own power and
authority.
Real Life Example

• So, a speaker using


‘Ethos’ has to create a
sense of credibility and
trustworthiness for
himself in the minds of
the audience.
• Only when the audience
can trust and believe in
the writer or speaker’s
character, only then will
they be persuaded by
such a writer or speaker.
Real Life Example

• The word ‘Logos’ is of


Greek origin and means
the word ‘reasoning’.

• ‘Logos’ in rhetoric is an
appeal made by a writer
or speaker to the reader
or listener’s logical
reasoning.
Real Life Example

• Let us now understand


how ‘Ethos’ and ‘Logos’
can be used for
persuasion through a
study of a classic piece of
English Literature.
Real Life Example

• You must have heard of


the classic play, ‘Julius
Caesar’; one of the
greatest classics of
English Literature and
one of the greatest
works of William
Shakespeare.
Real Life Example
‘Julius Caesar’
is a play about The play describes the
the assassination of Julius
protagonist Caesar for his growing
named Julius ambitions.
Caesar, who is
one of the
most
acclaimed,
honored and
loved leaders
of ancient
Rome.
Real Life Example
Some of the They fear that if Caesar is
high-ranking allowed to grow further
people of and become king, he will
Rome become a dictator who
including will be all powerful and
Caesar’s best reduce the whole of Rome
friend Brutus and its people to slaves.
believe that
Caesar’s
growing
ambitions are
turning him
into a tyrant.
Real Life Example
So, some of
the people
including
Brutus
conspire
together and
plot Caesar’s
murder.
Caesar is
stabbed 23
times by the
conspirators
including
Brutus in the
Senate.
Real Life Example

After Caesar’s assassination, Let us carefully


the citizens of Rome gather study a speech
near his dead body in the that Brutus
Forum, grieving for their loss. makes after
All of them angrily demand a Caesar’s
justification for this hideous assassination to
crime. the citizens of
Rome.
Observe how
he uses ‘ethos’
and ‘logos’ in
rhetoric to
justify Caesar’s
assassination.
Real Life Example

Romans, countrymen and lovers! Hear As Caesar loved me, I weep for
me for my cause, and be silent, that him: as he was fortunate, I
you may hear: believe me for mine rejoice at it; as he was valiant. I
honour, and have respect to mine honor him: but, as he was
honour, that you may believe: censure ambitious, I slew him. There is
me in your wisdom, and awake your tears for his love: joy for his
senses, that you may the better judge. fortune; honor for his valor: and
If there be any in this assembly, any death for his ambition. Who is
dear friend of Caesar’s, to him I say, here so base that would be a
that Brutus’ love to Caesar was no less bondman? If any, speak; for him
than his. If then that friend demand have I offended. Who is here so
why Brutus rose against Caesar, this is rude that would not be a Roman?
my answer: Not that I loved Caesar If any, speak: for him have I
less, but that I loved Rome more. Had offended. Who is here so vile that
you rather Caesar were living and die will not love his country? If any,
all slaves, than that Caesar were dead, speak; for him have I offended. I
to live all free men? pause for a reply.
Real Life Example

Let us now see


After this highly persuasive the words that
speech by Brutus, the citizens Brutus used as
replied in unison: ‘ethos’ in
rhetoric:

None
Brutus
none
Real Life Example

Romans, countrymen and lovers! Hear As Caesar loved me, I weep for
me for my cause, and be silent, that him: as he was fortunate, I
you may hear: believe me for mine rejoice at it; as he was valiant. I
honour, and have respect to mine honor him: but, as he was
honour, that you may believe: censure ambitious, I slew him. There is
me in your wisdom, and awake your tears for his love: joy for his
senses, that you may the better judge. fortune; honor for his valor: and
If there be any in this assembly, any death for his ambition. Who is
dear friend of Caesar’s, to him I say, here so base that would be a
that Brutus’ love to Caesar was no less bondman? If any, speak; for him
than his. If then that friend demand have I offended. Who is here so
why Brutus rose against Caesar, this is rude that would not be a Roman?
my answer: Not that I loved Caesar If any, speak: for him have I
less, but that I loved Rome more. Had offended. Who is here so vile that
you rather Caesar were living and die will not love his country? If any,
all slaves, than that Caesar were dead, speak; for him have I offended. I
to live all free men? pause for a reply.
Real Life Example
Hence, you Let us see the
can see that words that
Brutus Brutus used as
cleverly uses ‘logos’ in
‘Ethos’ to rhetoric:
build trust in
himself and
then uses this
trust as a
base for
justifying his
action of
killing Caesar.
Real Life Example

Romans, countrymen and lovers! Hear As Caesar loved me, I weep for
me for my cause, and be silent, that him: as he was fortunate, I
you may hear: believe me for mine rejoice at it; as he was valiant. I
honour, and have respect to mine honor him: but, as he was
honour, that you may believe: censure ambitious, I slew him. There is
me in your wisdom, and awake your tears for his love: joy for his
senses, that you may the better judge. fortune; honor for his valor: and
If there be any in this assembly, any death for his ambition. Who is
dear friend of Caesar’s, to him I say, here so base that would be a
that Brutus’ love to Caesar was no less bondman? If any, speak; for him
than his. If then that friend demand have I offended. Who is here so
why Brutus rose against Caesar, this is rude that would not be a Roman?
my answer: Not that I loved Caesar If any, speak: for him have I
less, but that I loved Rome more. Had offended. Who is here so vile that
you rather Caesar were living and die will not love his country? If any,
all slaves, than that Caesar were dead, speak; for him have I offended. I
to live all free men? pause for a reply.
Real Life Example
Hence, you can
see that Brutus
cleverly uses
‘Logos’ to
appeal to the
logical sense of
the audience
and then uses
reasoning as a
base for
justifying his
action of killing
Caesar.
MCQ

Q. Which of the following words


means 'suffering'?

Click on the
radio button
to select the
correct
answer!
MCQ

Q. Which of the following words


means 'suffering'?
MCQ

Q. Which of the following words


means 'suffering'?
Objectives
• Explain What is Persuasion
• Explain How Persuasion Works
• Describe the Importance of Persuasion
• Explain the Steps of the Persuasion Process
• Explain the Role of Communication in Persuasion
• Explain How to Use AIDA for Persuasive Writing
• Explain the Rhetoric of Persuasion
•• Explain
Explain the
the Major
Major Principles
Principles of
of Persuasion
Persuasion
• Explain How to Persuade Different Personalities
• Explain the Use Positive Body Language for Persuasion
• Explain the Framework Theories for Applying Persuasion
• Explain Strategies for Developing Persuasion Skills
• Explain the Storytelling Technique of Persuasion
• Explain the Steps for Building Rapport
• List the Characteristics of a Good Persuader
Major Principles of Persuasion
The following are the major principles of persuasion:

Principle of
Consistency

Principle of
Reciprocation

Principle of
Scarcity

Principle of
Authority

Let’s look at each in detail.


Principle of Consistency
The following are the key principles of influencing people:
Principle of Consistency:
Until a person is committed, there is
Principle of Commitmenthesitancy, the chance to draw back and
Consistency always ineffectiveness.
& Consistency
Also, consistency is important because
repetition of the same thought or
Principle of physical action develops into a habit
Reciprocation Reciprocation
which, repeated frequently enough,
becomes an automatic reflex.
The commitment and consistency rule
states that once we make a decision, we
Principle of willScarcity
experience pressure from others
Scarcity and ourselves to behave consistently
with that decision. As per this principle,
Principle of Authority a person can be pressured into making
Authority either good or bad decisions depending
on his commitment and consistency of
behavior.
Let’s look at each in detail.
Principle of Reciprocation
Principle of Reciprocation:
Reciprocation is important in order to
persuade others because when you give
Principle of yourself, you receive more than you
Consistency give. This is because trying to get
without first giving is as fruitless as
trying to reap without having sown.
Principle of When the requester first presents the
Reciprocation other person with an initial favor or
initial concession, the requester will
have enlisted a powerful ally in the
campaign for compliance. People
Principle of generally succumb to the reciprocity
Scarcity rule and comply with the requester's
wish. The rule of reciprocation states
Principle of that humans have an inherent desire to
Authority return favors. By doing a favor you can
persuade a person to return the favor in
the form of agreeing with you or buying
your products or services.
Principle of Scarcity
Principle of Scarcity:
The principle of scarcity states that we
are more easily persuaded when the
Principle of resource is limited. The primary reason
Consistency scarcity is so effective for persuading
people is that generally we are more
motivated by loss than gain. Scarcity
Principle of implies rarity, high quality, and high
Reciprocation demand, all influences that increase our
demand for the resource. You can adapt
the same scarcity principle in everyday
conversations for persuading people.
Principle of Tell the person there is “limited time”, “a
Scarcity rare opportunity”, or “high demand
because it's popular”. Scarcity phrases
Principle of appeal to both the left and right brain
Authority functions because they are verbal and
mathematical numbers (left brain) but
also contextual and focus on the future
(right brain).
Principle of Authority
Principle of Authority:
Authority plays a major role in
persuading people. However, you should
Principle of remember that you don't have to hold a
Consistency position in order to be a leader. The
principle of authority states that we are
more easily persuaded by those with
Principle of authority. There are symbols of
Reciprocation authority you can use to increase your
authority and persuading power. The
three typical symbols of authority are
title, clothing, and perceivable wealth.
Principle of Title can be the occupation's prefix like
Scarcity “doctor” and “professor”. The second
symbol of authority is clothing which
Principle of consists of all the clothing a person
Authority wears. Lastly, perceivable wealth can
consist of the respective person's house,
jewelry, business, and any other wealth
the person being persuaded can see.
Principle of Liking

Principle of Liking:
An important principle of persuading
Principle of people if that leadership comes through
Consistency respect and a large part of respect
comes from liking someone. This is
because each man is led by his own
Principle of liking. The principle of liking says that
Reciprocation people will say “yes” more often to
those they like. If there was a situation
of choosing who would likely follow your
request between a complete stranger
Principle of versus a friend, you can be very
Scarcity confident in knowing your friend is more
likely to comply with your request than
Principle of the stranger. There are six principles of
Authority liking: physical attractiveness, familiarity,
compliments, association, cooperation,
and similarity.
Principle of Consensus

Principle of
Principle of Consensus:
Consistency
You should remember that men are like
sheep, of which a flock is more easily
Principle of driven than a single one.
Reciprocation
The sixth principle of persuasion,
consensus, states that people look to
others and follow what they are doing.
Hence, in order to persuade people, it is
Principle of
better to create an impression and
Scarcity
persuade a mass of people to follow
you, which leads the other people to
Principle of
follow you automatically.
Authority
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