Wouldn’t it be great if you were able to influence people and win arguments easily and effortlessly? It may surprise you to know that it is not as difficult as you might imagine and there are some simple techniques you can put to into use which should produce staggering results.
1. Begin in a friendly way
There is nothing worse for your chances of winning an argument than approaching it with an attitude or temper. For one, this will immediately put your opponent on the defensive and make it very difficult for them to accept defeat. Secondly, if you are not in a friendly and relaxed state of mind, it is unlikely that you will be thinking clearly so you are already at a disadvantage.
2. Show respect for the other person’s opinions. Never say, “You’re wrong.”
Never directly tell your opponent that they are wrong. Whether there is any merit in their point of view or whether it is complete and utter rubbish, the more you deliberately contradict them and put them down, the more likely they are to stand their ground and refuse to give in. Simply putting forward your own point of view is sufficient to make your point.
3. Get the other person saying “yes, yes” immediately
The quicker you get the other person comfortable saying “yes” i.e. not trying to contradict you, the quicker you will be able to persuade them to agree with you.
4. Let the other person do a great deal of the talking
This is one which often trips up the novice debater. The more someone talks in an argument, the more desperate they come across to win the argument. By relaxing and allowing your opponent to dig themselves into a hole, the more time you have to plan your next response which you can deliver in a controlled and concise manner.
5. Let the other person feel that the idea is his or hers
The easiest and quickest way to end an argument is to present such a compelling case in a subtle way, your opponent talks themselves round to your way of thinking. This is a skill that requires some preparation and practice but is highly effective.
6. Try honestly to see things from the other person’s point of view
If you take time to look at the disagreement from your opponent’s point of view then it is likely that you will be able to pre-empt their arguments and you will certainly be able to handle their opinions more effectively by understanding their stance.
7. Be sympathetic with the other person’s ideas and desires
