Persuasion-the fundamentals

Persuasion is not about manipulation. It is about leading the other to arrive at a decision which they recognise as beneficial for them, or at least the right decision in the circumstances. Aristotle wrote a seminal work about persuasion and identified three elements to persuade: I have written previously about Aristotle and persuasion.

Closing submission or speech is 100% about persuasion 

The closing submission or speech in a hearing is all about persuasion. It is not about facts, but about comment. 80% comment, 20% facts. It is about explaining why you should win based on the facts that have been established. Always write out your closing submission. Not every word, necessarily, but consider each sentence. Do… Continue reading Closing submission or speech is 100% about persuasion 

How to Speak Like a Leader

How to convince and persuade by the use of words is something that fascinates me. Regardless of whether the words are written or spoken the power to move other people with your choice of words and formulation of what you wish to say has been evident from time immemorial. From Aristotle’s ‘Rhetoric’ (also known as… Continue reading How to Speak Like a Leader

Lawyers Persuading with Effective Word Pictures (and What You Can Learn)

If I was accused of murder I would hate to see Michael Bowman SC prosecuting me. Although if I had Bernard Condon SC defending my chances of acquittal would be greatly enhanced. My attention has been arrested by the word pictures these two men have been painting for the jury this week in the Patrick… Continue reading Lawyers Persuading with Effective Word Pictures (and What You Can Learn)