Six Timeless Persuasive Writing Techniques
Dear Visitor:
Are you trying to convince and impress your readers?
And are you hoping that they will agree with your point of view?
Let me assure you that the goal of persuasion is to create
a win-win situation. Make an offer people cannot refuse and
present a case that others may find beneficial to agree with.
That's what I call a win-win situation...
There are a few important techniques that can make your job easier
and your ideas much more compelling. I hope you will take the time
to go over a few strategies listed below and incorporate them
into your communications plan. Please note that the list is far from
complete, but it will help you get your creative juices flowing and
channel your communication strategy in the right direction.
1. Storytelling
This technique works. And it works really well. Why? Simply
because storytelling lies at the heart of what persuasion really is.
Do everything you can to tell better, more interesting and
compelling stories that will have an impact on your reader
or listener.
2. Explain why...
Remember the power of the word "because"?
According to many psychological studies, people are more
likely to comply with a request if you provide specific reasons
why...People don't like it when someone asks them to take
action without a reasonable explanation. Therefore, if you
want them to be more receptive to your line of thinking,
always give reasons why.
3. Consistency
Consistency, in my opinion, is a very valuable social trait.
No one wants to appear inconsistent, which is a characteristic
commonly associated with instability. Consistency, on the other
hand, is associated with integrity, trustworthiness and rational behavior.
4. Comparisons
Without a doubt, metaphors and analogies are the persuasive writer's
best friends. When you can connect your scenario to something that
the reader already accepts as true, you are well on your way of
convincing someone to see things your way.
5. Agitate and solve
This powerful technique works well as an overall approach to making
your case. First, you identify the problem, then describe the reader's
pain or concern, and offer a specific solution that will make it all better.
Let the reader know that you understand what he or she is going through.
You could have dealt with the similar situation yourself...Now you know
how to eliminate the problem and get back on track.
6. Extend an invitation
Here is what I think: Give someone a chance to be a part of the
group they want to be in - whether that be wealthy, hip or
contrarian - they will hop on board. What you should do is find
out what group people want to be in and offer them an invitation to
join (while seemingly excluding others).
As I pointed out above, the list if far from complete.
Of course, if you are aware of any other persuasive
writing strategies, please feel free to share them with me.
Need help with your writing, marketing or PR projects,
please email angela@kambarian.com or
call (516) 889-8636 today.
Are you trying to convince and impress your readers?
And are you hoping that they will agree with your point of view?
Let me assure you that the goal of persuasion is to create
a win-win situation. Make an offer people cannot refuse and
present a case that others may find beneficial to agree with.
That's what I call a win-win situation...
There are a few important techniques that can make your job easier
and your ideas much more compelling. I hope you will take the time
to go over a few strategies listed below and incorporate them
into your communications plan. Please note that the list is far from
complete, but it will help you get your creative juices flowing and
channel your communication strategy in the right direction.
1. Storytelling
This technique works. And it works really well. Why? Simply
because storytelling lies at the heart of what persuasion really is.
Do everything you can to tell better, more interesting and
compelling stories that will have an impact on your reader
or listener.
2. Explain why...
Remember the power of the word "because"?
According to many psychological studies, people are more
likely to comply with a request if you provide specific reasons
why...People don't like it when someone asks them to take
action without a reasonable explanation. Therefore, if you
want them to be more receptive to your line of thinking,
always give reasons why.
3. Consistency
Consistency, in my opinion, is a very valuable social trait.
No one wants to appear inconsistent, which is a characteristic
commonly associated with instability. Consistency, on the other
hand, is associated with integrity, trustworthiness and rational behavior.
4. Comparisons
Without a doubt, metaphors and analogies are the persuasive writer's
best friends. When you can connect your scenario to something that
the reader already accepts as true, you are well on your way of
convincing someone to see things your way.
5. Agitate and solve
This powerful technique works well as an overall approach to making
your case. First, you identify the problem, then describe the reader's
pain or concern, and offer a specific solution that will make it all better.
Let the reader know that you understand what he or she is going through.
You could have dealt with the similar situation yourself...Now you know
how to eliminate the problem and get back on track.
6. Extend an invitation
Here is what I think: Give someone a chance to be a part of the
group they want to be in - whether that be wealthy, hip or
contrarian - they will hop on board. What you should do is find
out what group people want to be in and offer them an invitation to
join (while seemingly excluding others).
As I pointed out above, the list if far from complete.
Of course, if you are aware of any other persuasive
writing strategies, please feel free to share them with me.
Need help with your writing, marketing or PR projects,
please email angela@kambarian.com or
call (516) 889-8636 today.
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