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Leaders Light The Path

PODCAST EPISODE

How does it feel to be persuaded?

A look behind the curtains of the art of persuasion … 

Read more thoughts on the art of communicating daily at https://michaelgerharz.com/blog

Transcript
Michael:

Welcome back to “Irresistible Communication”. Two minutes no nonsense advice on leadership communication. So, how does it feel to be persuaded? Perhaps something like this. Let's imagine you're listening to a skilled speaker. They are well-rehearsed and obviously know what they're talking about. But still, you're feeling a bit of skepticism mixed with your curiosity as they present their ideas. A subtle guard rises within you, kind of a natural defense against being swayed or manipulated. But they skillfully weave emotional appeals and logical arguments. You notice your skepticism battling with intrigue. Their words are like a gentle, but persistent nudge against your existing beliefs. You find yourself momentarily swayed by a particularly compelling point. Only to retreat back into doubt. The speaker seems to sense these waves of resistance. They become more insistent, more persuasive. And so you feel a growing tension to agree. It's not exactly uncomfortable, but it's definitely there. There's a part of you that wants to give in, to align with this persuasive narrative, just to alleviate the growing tension within you. When the presentation ends, you're left feeling a bit unsettled. You find yourself. You find yourself agreeing with some points. But did you agree because the arguments were sound or because the art of persuasion simply wore down your defenses? I guess you agree that the art of persuasion is definitely a fascinating one. And yet. I prefer it when leaders light the path. Both aim to create tension that leads to change. But persuasion does it in the speaker's best interest, while lighting the path does it in the audience's best interest. Keep lighting the path and share this with a friend.

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