Persuasion Through Controversy

When writing you persuasive speech, don't be afraid to embrace controversy. Take a stand about something, make a statement, and start a conversation. Too many speakers try and maintain a "middle of the road" approach, an approach that they believe will please the majority of people. For a persuasive speaker, this is suicide. The whole idea behind persuasion is to bring someone over to your side of the fence, and that involves controversy.

Challenge accepted perceptions and beliefs, and argue your point with passion and intelligence. Understand that not everybody will agree with you, but that's ok, because if they don't agree with you, they will say something, and keep the conversation going, giving you more opportunities to persuade people over to your point of view.

If you do manage to win them over, then so much the better, as you will have created a new champion for your cause. So go against the flow, create a stir, and become embroiled in a controversy. It's your speech, so make it a good one!