Persuading

“Speech is power: speech is to persuade, to convert, to

compel”

Relevance of Persuasion

Anyone here going into sales???

–So, when will you need to persuade?

Needs:

–Someone to help you.

–Accept your viewpoint.

–Get someone to change their mind. #

Relevance cont…

When do we give speeches to persuade?

–Talk to an employer about a job.

(Interview)

–Try to entice a friend to join a group.

(Extra-Curricular, Sport, Church)

–Discuss a controversial issue.

–Propose a change.

–Complete an assignment. #

Relevance Cont…

We see persuasive speeches everyday.

Advertisements are mini-speeches:

– They capture attention.

– Present a case.

– And end memorably.

Recognizing persuasive techniques help you:

– Present your own effective appeals.

– Listen with greater objectivity.#

Speaker’s Credibility

Refers to your reputation with or influence on the audience.

You want to be accepted as authoritative, knowledgeable, and influential.

Most gained through personal, first-hand experience, or researched study of the subject.

While your experience is lacking, it will continue to grow.

– Continuing education: College, job experience, military,

apprenticeship, etc. #

Credibility cont… Student’s best bet? Strong research,

and identification.

Identification – Make sure the audience knows who/what

your source is.

– The amount of information you need to give about your source depends on what they know!

*Example: If you were giving a speech about plants, and you identified two sources…

1.) “According to Mr. Hoch…”

2.) “According to Jason Lamb, professor of Biology at The University of Akron…”#

Persuasive Language

Do you want to use good, strong, convincing, or memorable language?

1.) Speak directly to the audience, addressing them as “you” often.

2.) State specific actions listeners should take.

3.) Use words of action; Be direct.

4.) Do not wander, or soft-pedal around what you want the listeners to do.

5.) Use positive language that repeatedly points toward solutions.

*Focus on why you’re correct, not why they’re wrong. #

Origins of Persuasion

Over 2500 Years ago, the Ancient Greek, Aristotle, established the principles of persuasion.

He wrote The Rhetoric, which is considered the most influential book on the subject, still!!! (2500 YEARS!!!)

Greatest influence in helping systematize logic – the science of thought and also the basis of an effective speech to persuade. #

Techniques of Persuasion

These techniques focus on gaining credibility, stirring emotion, and using logic. Don’t be #sheeple!

1. Ethos The way in which the audience perceives the

character and personality of a speaker.

2. Logos Logical appeal based on reasoning and

evidence.

3. Pathos Using the listeners’ personal drives, needs

and desires. #

Bottom Line…

…a knowledgeable, sincere, logical speaker stands a greater chance of successfully persuading others!

End of Persuasive

Notes…

What will you get today?