Listen, Instead
The best way to persuade people is with your ears – by listening to them. – Dean Rusk
There’s a difference between persuasion and coercion.
If you persuade, you are either helping someone see a different point of view or to act when they would not have otherwise.
To persuade you need trust.
Trust is built through listening.
Through the kindness and presence that helps one feel safe.
Take the time to listen and make sure that people feel heard.
Or, you can use force of some sort.
You can be the proverbial bull-in-the-china-shop and get your way.
But that “victory” will be short-lived and/or grudgingly given.
Instead, listen.