Persuasive speeches have several uses ranging from politicians promoting legislation to students fulfilling a requirement for their public speaking courses. These speeches, however, can also serve you in everyday life; for example, this type of oration is common in the news when debating the merits of controversial programs such as bank bailouts and military intervention in a foreign country. Giving a persuasive speech doesn't need to be on serious topics, either. Convincing someone that one show is better than the other is just as appropriate.
Instructions
1. Select a topic that you are passionate about. Do not choose an inherently controversial topic on politics, religion or drugs if the themes do not interest you. Select a topic that you have first-hand experience and in-depth knowledge of. The natural passion you exude on the subject will enhance the persuasiveness of the speech.
2. Develop an outline for the speech. Write an introduction, three to five main points and a conclusion. Use the introduction to explain background on the topic in an unbiased, objective manner. Provide enough information to give the audience enough knowledge on the topic to understand the rest of the speech. For example, include definitions of main concepts, origins of the topic, changes over the years and how the current situation came to be.
3. Explain your case in three to five main points. A persuasive speech on going vegan, for instance, may have the three main points of health benefits, improved animal welfare and debunking misconceptions of the diet. Find facts from credible experts to support every claim. Reference studies, findings, expert opinions and other such literature throughout your speech. If necessary, use note cards that have the specific information related to the year of studies and the author's name.
4. Reiterate your main points in the conclusion and include a "call to action." Explain how the listener can take further steps to promote or endorse your ideals outlined in the speech. These steps may include contacting legislators, joining an organization or attending a workshop on the issue.
5. Practice your speech in front of others beforehand. Pay attention to your rate of speech as well. A 2011 University of Michigan study found that speakers who spoke moderately fast at 3.5 words per second were most successful at convincing others of their points than speakers whose rate of speech was slower or faster than this rate.
