Persuasion

Convince Me

Persuasion is one of mankind’s survival tools. People use it both emotionally and rationally to develop agreements or consensus through discussion. Ideally, a good outcome allows all the parties involved to concur on taking some form of action.

Persuasion differs from manipulation in that it does not use deception. Manipulators often act solely for their own benefit, whereas persuaders have common interests at heart. Finally, manipulation is short-lived, and ends when the manipulator accomplishes his or her goals. Persuaders seek to foster long-term, mutually beneficial relationships.

Skilled persuaders’ personal attributes – voice, appearance and demeanor – support their advocacy efforts. Studies have shown that a person’s appearance affects others’ perceptions. For example, job interviewers tend to hold tall men in higher regard than short men. Similarly, good-looking people can secure jobs faster than equally qualified but less attractive people.

Consequently, effective persuaders must cultivate good personalities. They must dress well, and appear stylish, well groomed and in good physical shape. Details are important. All of a person’s actions...