Be More Convincing When You Talk

1.     Use small active verbs of physical movement for power and forceVerbs are words that bring to life what you say.  The more simple active verbs you use, the better. Your language will be more forceful and convincing.   Avoid abstract and vague verbs. It destroys the power and force of what you say. Abstract verbs are usually nouns modified by adding – “ize”  as in finalize or – “ate” as in officiate.  They bore your listener and makes him lose interest in what you have to say.

2.       Use simple words. The simpler your words are the more potent it is.  Short simple words are powerful not only while talking but also in writing.  Note how much more force is in the sentence,“ Do Not Smoke” than in, “ Thank You For Not Smoking.”

3.       Use personal words. Always use personal words such as I, you, we, us, Smith, janitor. It is specific and more powerful. Avoid at all cost words that are used to pass the buck such as; “They said”, “It was said”.  They destroy the force of your talk.

4.       Be direct.  Be specific. Use illustration if you have to, but do not beat around the bush.  And if you don’t know, say so.

5.       Deliver one idea at a time.The human brain has almost infinite capacity to store information but it only can take in so much at a given time. When you talk, you are transmitting information that your listener’s brain needs to interpret and this requires effort. If you are giving too many ideas at a time, your listener will simply lose interest out of exhaustion.  Giving one idea allows more time for the working memory of your listener to process it better and this helps in holding his interest.

6.       Respect your listener. Don’t talk down to your listener. You will lose his interest.