To win over your audience, in addition to having a compelling story, you also need to have persuasive words. To do so, you need to choose your words carefully. So, how do we write persuasively? Here are some ways (with reference to the Sample Pitch Script).
1. Use second-person
One very good way to engage your audience's attention is to address them. Use the "second-person narration" (i.e. "you") to keep them focused.
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Example: ...when you feel hungry, you simply go into the CUHK App. |
2. Use effective conjunctions
Conjunctions are used to show relationship between clauses. You can exploit this by using them in a way to show how your solution is beneficial in a concise manner.
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Example: You can wait in your office or dorm room and do your homework while the delivery is being performed by someone else. |
3. Use imperative
While imperatives are often used as commands (e.g. "do your homework", "clean your room"), effective use of imperatives can give a sense of immediacy and closeness. This is particularly useful when demonstrating your proposed solution.
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Example: Click 'Order Food'... |
4. Keep it positive
There are times when you might need to mention something that is not particularly attractive about your proposal. Try to rephrase it in a way that is positive and beneficial.
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Example: Instead of saying "Students will make $45 a day" (which is a very low amount), you can say "A student who does 3 deliveries a day can earn up to $1,500 a month." |
5. Draw an analogy
To help your audience quickly understand how your solution works, you should draw an analogy - which is a comparison with a similar product or service.
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Example: Like Uber or other taxi apps, the deliverer's performance can be rated, and there will be a dedicated online method to resolve conflict. |
6. Follow the "short-long" pattern
Make your speech memorable by always articulating your point in a short phrase first, then followed by the longer, more detailed explanation.
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Example: So, who does this benefit? First, you! You get to have food at the convenience of your own room... |