Silence: the art of Persuasion

By silence, what I mean is speaking as less as possible and making statements which are as vague as possible. It is not keeping quiet and meditating.

If we think that logical explanation, statistical analysis and scientific exhortation will persuade any person to follow you, then better think again. More you speak, less effective you become. More you speak, more you reveal yourself that means your insecurities, ignorance and stupidity.

Now do you understand why professors are least effective in persuading students to bring changes in their behavior? Professors’ business is speaking, in the process they reveal so much of themselves, students run for life when they see them.

Want to be a successful swamiji or a priest? Do not write blog, keep silence, even if you are not meditating, even if you do not know what prayer is and how to pray, do not worry, people will think that you are conversing with God. Human mind enjoys interpreting others, silence is always interpreted positively (of course when you are accused, if you keep silent then different interpretation will be given). Want to be a persuasive leader? Create aura around yourself. The best way to create aura is through silence.

Henry Alfred Kissinger, German born American Diplomat, is known for speaking less and creating the maximum impact. He was a master negotiator; his negotiation with Winston Lord is worth quoting. Winston Lord submitted the report to Kissinger. After keeping the report for a day, Kissinger returned it with a note, “Is it the best offer you can make to me?” Winston Lord reworked on the report for several days and resubmitted it; again Kissinger returned it with a note, “Is it the best offer you can make to me?” Once again Winston spent days together to make more concession and gave it to Kissinger, third time also Kissinger returned the report with the note, “Is it the best offer you can make to me?” Winston Lord got wild and said, “Yes, damn it, this is best I can offer”. Kissinger took report and said, “OK, this time I will read through the report”.

Leader, who speaks a lot, will dig his own grave eventually. People will create legend about you, if you know when not to speak. Words are like supply, listening is the demand. Remember supply should never exceed the demand, if it exceeds then you are a lost case.