16 Traits That Make Someone Incredibly Persuasive

16 Traits That Make Someone Incredibly Persuasive ©iStock/pixelfit

Ever met someone who always seems to know exactly the right thing to say to get their own way in life? They’re not manipulative, per se, they’re just extremely persuasive. They have the gift of the gab and are able to talk people ’round to seeing their POV, which is a great skill to have. Here are some other traits they have that make them so convincing.

1. They’re active listeners.

They have a knack for making people feel valued and understood. By giving their full attention during conversations, they’re able to gain a deeper understanding of other people’s perspectives. This allows them to align their viewpoints in a way that resonates with the listener’s experiences, making their arguments more compelling.

2. They’re confident.

Their belief in their own abilities and ideas is unwavering. This self-assured nature can inspire trust in those around them and make their viewpoints seem more appealing. Their confidence can often encourage people to believe in their ideas too, creating a powerful persuasive effect.

3. They’re empathetic.

Their ability to connect with people on an emotional level is uncanny. This deep understanding of other people’s feelings and perspectives helps create a bond that can make them more open to their ideas. By acknowledging and validating other people’s experiences, they foster trust and openness, laying the groundwork for successful persuasion.

4. They’re knowledgeable.

Their arguments are backed by an extensive understanding of the subject matter. Being well-informed lends credibility to their viewpoints and can make their ideas more compelling. The depth and breadth of their knowledge not only strengthens their arguments but also demands respect from other people, adding to their persuasive power.

5. They’re patient.

They understand that influencing people is often a gradual process. Their persistent but gentle approach allows them to steadily sway people without seeming pushy or hasty. This patient approach shows respect for other people’s decision-making process and gives them the space to fully understand and accept their ideas.

6. They’re respectful.

Their interactions with people are always characterized by a deep sense of respect. By valuing everyone’s thoughts and opinions, they earn respect in return, which can facilitate their ability to influence. This mutual respect forms a strong foundation for open dialogue and effective persuasion.

7. They’re good communicators.

Their ability to articulate their thoughts clearly and succinctly makes it easy for everyone else to grasp their ideas. This clarity in communication can make their viewpoints more persuasive. Moreover, their adept communication skills enable them to convey complex ideas in an accessible manner, increasing the likelihood of acceptance.

8. They’re adaptable.

Their approach isn’t rigid but flexible, adjusting to suit the person they’re engaging with. This ability to tailor their strategy based on their audience can significantly enhance their persuasive power. By understanding and adapting to different perspectives, they can frame their ideas in a way that is most appealing to their audience.

9. They’re sincere.

Persuasive people are incredibly genuine in their interactions. This authenticity makes them more relatable and their viewpoints more convincing. The sincerity they display fosters trust and credibility, making it easier for people to be persuaded by their arguments.

10. They’re assertive.

They express their viewpoints confidently but without overpowering other people This balance between confidence and respect can significantly influence people to see things from their perspective. Their assertive yet respectful approach ensures that their ideas are heard, while also maintaining a positive and open communication environment.

11. They’re persistent.

They don’t give up easily, even in the face of resistance or disagreement. They steadfastly present their ideas, always ready to address doubts or concerns. This resilience often leads to the slow but sure acceptance of their viewpoints, demonstrating the effectiveness of persistence in persuasion.

12. They’re strategic.

They carefully plan their approach, paying attention to timing, context, and the specific needs and preferences of the individual they’re trying to influence. This strategic thinking allows them to present their ideas in the most effective way possible, significantly enhancing their persuasiveness.

13. They’re relatable.

They have the ability to connect on a personal level, often sharing experiences or stories that their audience can relate to. This connection can make it easier for people to see their perspective and be more receptive to their ideas. By being relatable, they humanize themselves, making their arguments more impactful.

14. They use positive reinforcement.

They make a point of acknowledging and appreciating other people’s POV, even when they disagree. This positive reinforcement can build a stronger relationship, making everyone more open to their influence. By fostering a positive interaction, they create a conducive environment for persuasion.

15. They’re charismatic.

Their personal charm and appeal often draw people towards them. This charisma can make their ideas seem more attractive, increasing their persuasive power. Their magnetic personality creates an engaging atmosphere that can encourage people to be more open to their viewpoints.

16. They’re observant.

They are keen observers, picking up on details that other people may miss. They use these insights to understand people better and tailor their approach accordingly. This ability to notice and understand subtle cues can make their arguments more relevant and persuasive.

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Gail is Bolde's social media and partnership manager, as well as an all-around behind-the-scenes renaissance woman. She worked for more than 25 years in her city's local government before making the switch to women's lifestyle and relationship sites, initially at HelloGiggles before making the switch to Bolde.
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