Argument correctly - how to really convince
Good argumentation is an important skill that contributes significantly to success in many areas of life. It's not just about asserting your own opinion, but above all about making discussions factual and goal-oriented. In this article, you will learn what makes a convincing argument, how you can defend your position and which mistakes you should avoid in order to keep the upper hand in discussions.
Why is good argumentation important?
Good argumentation is a key skill, both in your professional and private life. In the professional world, especially in negotiations, meetings or conflicts, good argumentation often becomes a key skill. Good argumentation helps you to represent your own position clearly, avoid misunderstandings and resolve conflicts.
In everyday life, it helps to present your own opinion in an objective manner so that others can understand and appreciate your point of view. In this way, misunderstandings can be avoided and conflicts can be resolved objectively.
What makes an argument strong?
A strong argument is well-structured and convincing with clear reasons. The structure of a good argument is based on the so-called 3-B scheme: assertion - justification - example. This scheme helps you to structure arguments logically and make them comprehensible.
Assertion:
You should first make a short and clear claim.
Example: “Flexible working hours increase employee productivity”
Justification:
Then explain why you are making this claim. It makes sense to link the assertion with the justification using conjunctions such as “because”, “since”, “especially” or “because”. It is particularly convincing if the reasoning is supported by studies.
Example: “Studies have shown that employees are less stressed under flexible working conditions and complete their tasks more effectively.”
Example:
An example provides evidence for your claim and helps you to illustrate it.
“Company XYZ, for example, has introduced flexible working hours and has been able to improve employee satisfaction and performance as a result.”
Arguing objectively and emotionally
When arguing, it is important to distinguish between factual and emotional arguments. Factual arguments are based on data and facts and are therefore objectively verifiable. Personal feelings are not expressed and no emotional evaluation is made. Emotional arguments, on the other hand, appeal to feelings and values. An emotional argument often makes use of metaphors.
Imagine your boss presenting a new project to your team. He could do this in two different ways:
Factual argumentation: “Based on the market analysis and the data from the last few quarters, the project is expected to generate a return of 20% within two years.”
Emotional reasoning: “The project is not only an opportunity to increase returns, but also an opportunity to realize our vision and be perceived as a pioneer in our industry.”
Both types of argumentation are justified, but you should use them consciously to achieve the desired effect. Factual arguments are generally more convincing when it comes to concrete solutions or objective issues, while emotional arguments are more effective when it comes to personal values or beliefs.
The right way to deal with objections
Objections are a normal part of any discussion. It is important to respond to objections objectively and respectfully without immediately becoming defensive. Dealing effectively with objections requires active listening and a willingness to understand the other person's point of view.
Respond to objections with follow-up questions and back up your own arguments with further facts that can invalidate the objection.
An example of a good response to an objection could be: “I understand your objection. Let's take a closer look at the figures to see if these concerns are justified.”
The most common argumentation errors
Argumentation errors are a common stumbling block and can affect the credibility and logic of your argument. It is therefore important to recognize and avoid the most common argumentation errors.
Circular reasoning
Circular reasoning occurs when the justification for a thesis is simply a different formulation of the claim rather than proof. For example, someone could say: “Coffee stimulates because it has a stimulating effect.”
In this case, the claim is not substantiated, but merely repeated. To avoid this mistake, you should always make sure that your justification provides new, supporting arguments or facts that strengthen your thesis.
False conclusions
False conclusions arise when an argument is used to confirm a claim that is true but cannot prove the claim. An example of a fallacy would be: “Coffee has a stimulating effect, so it is always good for waking you up in the morning.” Here, the stimulant effect of coffee is used as an argument for its benefits, without taking into account the possibility that coffee causes other effects in some people, such as insomnia or nervousness.
You can avoid false conclusions by ensuring that all arguments are logically linked to the thesis and not based on superficial or irrelevant information.
False generalization
This error occurs when a general conclusion is drawn from a few observations or an individual case. An example of a false generalization would be: “I always drink coffee in the morning and feel very awake afterwards, so coffee will wake everyone up.” To avoid making a false generalization, make sure that conclusions are based on a broad base of observations or data.
Checklist for persuasive argumentation in discussions
- Keep your goal in mind: What do you want to achieve and what key messages do you want to get across?
- Prepare your arguments: Research data, facts and examples to prove your point.
- Adhere to the structure: Use the 3-B scheme (assertion - justification - example) to present your arguments convincingly.
- Factual or emotional: Depending on the topic and the person you are talking to, opt for a factual or emotional argument.
- Be prepared for objections: See objections as an opportunity to strengthen your claim with further arguments and evidence.
- Avoid argumentation errors: Check whether your arguments are logically justified and supported by appropriate facts.
- Find a meaningful conclusion: Summarize your arguments and draw a clear conclusion.