persuasive speech topics

When you commence talking, at least for the first few sentences do not broach the topic directly but try and establish rapport with the audience compelling them to listen to you. Include the audience in your discussion so that they do not feel left out. Begin in a way that arrests their attention. You could use a quote or a human story to introduce the topic and stir their interest. They now begin to sit up and take notice of you. This is the right time to establish your credentials. The audience has a viewpoint. Learn to recognize this, acknowledge it and go along with it for some time. Most importantly, use the word we rather than I.

Body language is an important tool to gauge the pulse of the audience. Once their shoulders sag and their posture becomes indifferent, it means you have lost their attention. Work hard to keep them in sync with you. Your speech must be articulate, lucid and simple and flow smoothly from one sentence to the next. Carry the audience along with you and if you lose even one of them, make it a point to retrace your steps and bring the stray sheep back into the fold. Audiences usually take micro naps, and the best way to keep them awake is to raise and lower your voice as and when required. Adjust your pace according to the situation.

Change the volume and the pitch so that you retain control of the audience. The reins must always be in your hands and you must control yourself and those who ride along. The timbre of your voice must be pleasing to the ear, and it should mesmerize the listener. Switch gears as you talk. The change in frequency and decibel will keep the audience wide-awake. Be parsimonious in the use of words but let your attitude suggest the force behind them. This way the audience can visualize what you want to say. The biggest hurdle you have to cross is when you want to disagree with a particular viewpoint.

The audience has already been lulled slowly into a frame of mind from where it can be made malleable. Now put across your message in such a way that the audience is really left with very little choice but to accept. Give solid facts and concrete information to prove your point. Be passionate about what you have to say. Emotion in small doses can act as a tonic. Anticipate objection and focus on how your views are going to nullify such objections. Go in for the kill. If you have done your job well, the audience is eating out of your hand. Tell your listeners what you want from. Make a grand concluding statement and watch the audience applaud. Author M Swami. copyright @indianchild.com