The 8 Most Persuasive Words in the English Language

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Did you know that using the right words can help you get what you want? The power of influence and persuasion goes beyond asking someone to do you favours and it has a lot to do with how you communicate your message. In fact, you will be surprised to learn that a single word can make a big difference to what you are trying to say whether you are trying to convince your parents to agree with you or make employers like you.

Research has reveal the incredible power of words. A study conducted by Loftus and Palmer showed that the words you use to describe an event (in this case a car accident) – such as instead of saying ‘contacted’ you use ‘smashed’ – totally changes the way a listener views the situation. This piece of information can give you a great advantage in your job search considering that you too can choose which words to use in your resume and in your next interview to appear more convincing.

If you are interested to know, these are some of the most persuasive words you can use to achieve your goal:

1. You

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People tend to be more receptive and open to hearing what you have to say when they feel that you are talking directly to them. ‘You’ can be a very powerful word especially when you use the other person’s name within a sentence as it shows that it’s all about them. This is an effective technique many salespeople use to convince people to try and buy their products. So, why wouldn’t it work for you?

2. New

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The word ‘new’ calls for change, innovation and revolution and guess what? This is what everybody wants, especially employers. Within business, ‘newness’ is an element that is crucial to progress and success. ‘New’ signifies something fresh whether it is a new product that will make more money, a new approach to working that is going to be more efficient or new solutions to problems.

3. Because

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In his book Influence, Robert Cialdini refers to a study that shows the impact of the word ‘because’ has when used in everyday situations. The test had a person requesting to use an in-office copy machine the first time without using the word and the second had the word ‘because’ in it:

Example 1: “Excuse me, I have 5 pages, may I use the Xerox machine?”

Example 2: “I have 5 pages. May I use the Xerox machine because I am in a rush?”

In the first scenario, around 60 percent of people allowed this person to cut in line and use the machine first, but in the second scenario around 94 percent of people allowed him to do so. Even though ‘being in a rush’ wasn’t exactly a valid reason that justified what he wanted to do, the word ‘because’ made all the difference.

4. Instantly

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People like to hear the word ‘instantly’ as it denotes something is going to be done straight away when they need it and also they will also be satisfied with the result. When used effectively in a sentence it can show that you are resourceful and efficient. Studies have shown that people love instant gratification so using this word in a sentence can be very effective.

 

5. Easy

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The word ‘easy’ makes everything sound easy when it’s put in a sentence. Since employers are looking for new employees to make things easier for them and their team, they like being told how things can be made simple and they want you to tell them that. This is why coming up with some useful suggestions for improvement is always a good idea and shows what you can offer to the company you’re applying to.

6. Results

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‘Results’ can be a powerful word as it shows the people you want to impress and you have done something exceptionally good. This is clearly an effective word to use in your resume, but make sure that you provide enough evidence of the results you are talking about. Combining convincing language with words that signify your impact and contribution can almost be as effective as giving out real-life examples of how you meet the skills required for the position.

7. Proven

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The word ‘proven’ works the same way as ‘results’. When used effectively in a sentence it can show confidence and strong belief in your abilities. This is another way to demonstrate that you have tried a method that has worked for you and implies that if you do the same for your next employer, it will work for them too.

8. Free

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Who doesn’t like freebies? Every employer wants to expand their business but not many are willing to spend a lot of money on it. However, when they are introduced to an idea that says they can try out something for free and achieve their goals without having to spend money they are more likely to show interest in you.

When looking for a job, use the right words in the right way and you will get what you what. Sometimes it is not just what you say but also how you say it, so be aware of the deadly combo next time you are writing up your resume or you are in a job interview.

What other words or phrases do you think might help you persuade other people? Let me know in the comments section below…