Persuading People Through Speech - TASFIA SHAHRIN & RAIYAN BINTE MAZED

 Title:Persuading People Through Speech:

Authors:TASFIA SHAHRIN(ID-23301577)

               Raiyan Binte Mazed(ID-23303032)

Persuasive speech is the process of communicating with the other person to achieve a conclusion and to prove the validity of the speaker’s argument.Behavioural change is considered as the main goal of persuasion.This involves persuading someone to change their opinion or at the very least take into account some elements that have not really been considered before.Persuasive speaking skills can help us in every sphere of life.

In today’s world persuasive speech can be a powerful tool.It can also be considered as a valuable skill.Persuasive speaking has a variety of applications.It is used to achieve a goal.In addition,it can be used in our personal life.For example-it can be used in relationships to better understand the opposite person.

It is observable that probably we are doing a lot of persuasive speaking in our day to day life without even realizing it.If we can persuade people,we will be able to accomplish personal power.We can become more successful.And the people living in the society will value us.

We all have had some moments where we have been persuaded in one way or other.Such as-commercial on the television,a guidance of the counselor,any person’s speech etc.

In order to communicate effectively and influence people’s minds there are some strategies we can follow.In Fact,any influential speech by world leaders,famous politicians,teachers or celebrities like:7th march speech of Bangabandhu, “I have a dream”  by Martin Luther king Jr.etc all follow very similar pattern.A collection of good ideas if communicated accurately can change people’s views and get them working for a major change.When you are introducing a new idea or view in front of people,make sure to keep the following in mind.

1.UNDERSTANDING THE AUDIENCE:

It is very important to understand your target audience first.Many people fail to influence the audience because the audience did not understand the topic.So,at the very beginning before giving a speech first you need to know about the people you want to persuade.It is crucial to ask questions like ‘who am I giving this speech for?’, ‘what kind of  life do they lead?’, ‘why would they listen to me?’, ‘what barriers might they face for this idea?’, ‘can they understand the words i am saying?’ etc.

Besides,this knowledge about the audience would also help to find common grounds,relevancy and actually connecting with the audience.

2.Communicating the ultimate goal:

When pitching your ideas to an audience ,it is to be made sure that you and the stakeholders understand the main objective of the speech.People will only follow or listen to an idea when it is beneficial for them.So,it is essential to address an existing problem which can be solved by that idea.Also,it is to be stated clearly how it might benefit them and what you need from them for this idea to work.Authenticity and transparency are the key elements of a persuasive speech.

 

3.Establishing Credibility:

When giving a speech in public, the main motive in most cases is to introduce a new way of thinking and make people agree to work for a certain cause.People will only believe the speaker and take risks if he or she has the reliability.The speech must contain the speaker's credentials and experience as to why he can have a say regarding the topic.Naturally humans fear change,as such, for a idea to work the people need to have faith in it first.Furthermore,sharing personal experience about the topic makes the speech more relatable.

4.Having a good pitch:

A great speech is only possible when it is done with a good pitch.Speech is a way of communicating ideas.Not only this depends on what you are saying but also the way you are saying.Many people get nervous and end up speaking too quickly,in a monotonous tone or forgets to give pauses when needed.As a result,the speech becomes hard to understand.Therefore,for a influential speech it is important to use your emotions for example to speak quickly to express excitement,to speak in a deep voice to express authority and power,give pauses after important information so it is understood by the audience properly.

In conclusion,speech can be a very influential tool when delivered properly.It can help you to get investors,land the perfect job,lead a team efficiently,encourage people, both in personal and professional life and lead you to many more opportunities.Therefore,practicing and improving this skill is a must for today's corporate world.