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How to Argue Better

Name: How to Argue Better
Uploaded: 2024-11-11T17:25:26+00:00
Duration: 50 s
Channel: Shanli Liu, CPA, CTP
Description: In this instructional monologue, a trial attorney shares three practical techniques for more effective arguing. First, he advises against opening with a…

11 Nov 2024 · 1 min

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In this instructional monologue, a trial attorney shares three practical techniques for more effective arguing. First, he advises against opening with a counterpoint; instead, use open‑ended listening phrases like “Tell me more” to signal genuine attention and make the other party more receptive. Second, he recommends attacking the problem rather than the person by framing discussions as collaborative (“let’s look at it together”), which shifts opponents toward a teammate mindset. Third, he cautions against personal attacks on intelligence or character, explaining that such insults reveal a weak argument and only prolong conflict. The overall message is to foster constructive dialogue by listening, collaborating, and staying issue‑focused.

Chapters

As a trial attorney, here's how to argue better. Number 1, don't start with a counterpoint because if you do, they're not going to take it because they know you weren't listening. You were just rehearsing your opening line. So instead, use phrases that open them up like, "Tell me more," or, "Okay, I'm listening." When you get them to open up, they'll be more receptive to what you later have to say. Number 2, attack the problem, not the person. You can do that by using the word "together." For example, "Let's look at it together," or, "Can we talk about this issue together?" It takes you from opponents to teammates. Number 3, don't get personal. Typically that means insulting their intelligence or their character. If you get personal, it tells the other person that your argument is so weak that you have nothing left except to attack them. It's never worth it, and if anything, only ensures that you'll have another argument. So try that and follow me.