We know what traps can make you sound less persuasive. Avoid them and you will never lose your power to influence others.

Here is a list of things to avoid:

1. Do not exaggerate opposing ideas

This technique is often deployed by debaters. They think that by undermining the credibility of the contrasting opinion is the best way to make the opponent look extreme. This is done by us every day. The context and situation can be very different. In some instances while arguing, people intentionally omit some facts that are known to both parties. You might say that your boyfriend hates you just because he wants to play basketball instead of going to the swimming pool with you.

2. Do not take it too personal

Conflicts are caused by arguments. We debate without realizing that our conversation is full of aggression. This is when you might feel like taking a swing and commenting on the opponent’s weakest part of their personality or character. If you want to sound persuasive, then do not argue against the person. Do it against the idea.