Speaking: Functional Language B2 - Lesson 1: Persuading & Influencing Others

Speaking: Functional Language B2 - Lesson 1: Persuading & Influencing Others 🗣️🎯🤝

Objective: To learn and practice language strategies for effectively persuading and influencing others in a respectful, ethical, and convincing manner.

• Understand key principles of persuasion and influence.
• Learn phrases for presenting arguments logically and appealing to reason.
• Explore language for appealing to emotions and building rapport.
• Practice highlighting benefits and addressing potential concerns.
• Develop skills in making strong recommendations and gentle suggestions.

The ability to persuade (convince someone to do or believe something) and influence (have an effect on someone's thoughts or actions) is a valuable skill in many aspects of life – from professional negotiations to everyday discussions with friends and family. Effective persuasion is not about manipulation, but about presenting your ideas clearly, logically, and respectfully to help others see your point of view or agree to a course of action. This lesson focuses on the language and techniques to do this well.

1. Understanding Your Audience & Goal

Before trying to persuade, consider:

• Who is your audience? What are their needs, interests, values, and potential concerns? (e.g., persuading your boss will be different from persuading a friend).
• What is your clear goal? What do you want them to think, feel, or do as a result of your persuasion?

2. Key Persuasion Techniques & Language

A. Using Logic & Reason (Logos)

Presenting clear, logical arguments is often very persuasive.

• Present clear points: "My first point is that this approach will save us considerable time."
• Use facts/evidence (if available): "Studies have shown that regular exercise improves concentration."
• Logical connectors: "Therefore, investing in training is a sensible decision." / "Consequently, we can expect better results."
• "It makes sense to [action] because [reason]."

B. Appealing to Emotions (Pathos)

Connecting with people's feelings can be very influential.

• "Imagine how much easier our work would be if we adopted this new system."
• "This initiative could really help the local community in Kampong Speu by providing new opportunities."
• "Wouldn't it be great if we could all contribute to a cleaner environment?"

C. Building Credibility & Trust (Ethos)

People are more likely to be persuaded by someone they trust and see as knowledgeable.

• "Based on my experience working on similar projects..."
• "I strongly believe that this is the best course of action because..."
• "You can be confident that this approach has been thoroughly researched."

D. Highlighting Benefits (What's in it for them?)

Focus on how your idea or proposal will benefit the listener.

• "The main advantage of this for you is..."
• "By implementing this, you'll find that you can achieve [positive result]."
• "This will enable you to..." / "This will help you to..."

E. Addressing Concerns Proactively

Anticipate and address potential objections.

• "You might be concerned about the cost, but let me explain how it's a good investment."
• "I understand that this is a big change; however, the long-term benefits are significant."

3. Specific Phrases for Persuading & Influencing

A. Making Stronger Suggestions/Recommendations:

• "I strongly recommend that we proceed with this option."
• "It would be highly advisable to consider these factors."
• "I would urge you to think about the potential benefits."

B. Emphasizing Key Points:

• "The most important thing to remember is..."
• "What's crucial here is that we act quickly."
• "Let me emphasize the positive outcomes."

C. Gentler Persuasion / Suggestion:

• "Perhaps you could consider visiting the temples at sunrise?"
• "Have you thought about trying the local kuy teav for breakfast?"
• "It might be worth exploring alternative solutions."

Practice Activities

Activity 1: Identify the Technique

Read the following persuasive statements. What technique(s) (Logic, Emotion, Credibility, Highlighting Benefits, Addressing Concerns) are primarily being used? Click the button for a sample answer.

1. "Investing in this training program will increase our team's productivity by at least 20%, which will directly boost our profits."
   Logic (productivity statistic), Highlighting Benefits (boost profits)
2. "Imagine the relief and happiness of the families in the village if we can provide them with clean drinking water through this project."
   Appealing to Emotions (relief, happiness)
3. "With my ten years of experience managing similar community development projects in Southeast Asia, I am confident this plan will succeed."
   Building Credibility/Ethos (experience, confidence)

Activity 2: Persuade a Friend

Choose one of the scenarios. With a partner, one person tries to persuade the other. The other person can raise some concerns. Use phrases from this lesson.

• Persuade your friend to join you on a weekend trip to a less-known province in Cambodia (e.g., Kratie to see dolphins, or Ratanakiri for nature). Your friend is hesitant about the long journey or cost.
• Persuade your colleague to adopt a new software tool for project management that you believe will improve efficiency. Your colleague is comfortable with the old system.
• Persuade your family member to try a new, healthier type of diet or exercise routine. They are skeptical.

Activity 3: Mini-Presentation to Influence

Prepare a short (1-2 minute) talk where you try to persuade your classmates/audience about one of the following (or choose your own relevant topic):

• Why it's important for young Cambodians to volunteer in their communities.
• Why learning a traditional Cambodian art form (e.g., Apsara dance, Sbek Thom shadow puppetry) is valuable.
• Why businesses should adopt more environmentally friendly practices.

Focus on using a clear structure, logical reasons, highlighting benefits, and perhaps addressing a potential concern.

Tips for Ethical & Effective Persuasion:

• Be honest and genuine: Don't make false claims or manipulate information.
• Respect the other person's viewpoint: Listen to their concerns and acknowledge them.
• Focus on mutual benefit where possible: Show how your idea can be good for everyone involved.
• Be confident but not aggressive: Present your points clearly and assertively, but avoid being pushy.
• Use clear and simple language: Avoid overly complex jargon unless your audience is familiar with it.
• Know when to stop: Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you won't be able to persuade someone, and it's important to respect their decision.

Summary: Persuading and influencing others effectively involves a combination of logical reasoning, emotional connection, building credibility, and highlighting benefits. By understanding your audience, structuring your arguments clearly, and using appropriate language, you can become more successful in convincing others respectfully and achieving your communication goals. Remember that ethical persuasion focuses on creating positive outcomes.