"If nobody is listening, then what you say won't work."

"If nobody is listening, then what you say won't work."

Ever try to win an argument? It is hard because the other person tries to defend his position and views. The more you talk, the more the other person thinks of new things to say to support his position.

Wait, if you are talking, and the other person isn't listening because he is thinking of what to say next ... well, what you're saying isn't being heard.

So the first rule of arguing is to agree with the other person. That will stop the other person from thinking of new things to say. And if you are agreeing with the other person, well, there is no argument.

So first, agree. Then ... you can insert your point of view because the other person is listening. Want an example?

Just learn these two words: "Of course."

Now, observe how this sounds to the other person who has just given you an objection.

Prospect: "I don't have any money to join."
You: "Of course you don't have any money to join. That is why I am talking to you, because I know you want to change that situation. So let's first look at how you can raise the money to ..."

Prospect: "I don't have any time. I am way too busy."
You: "Of course you don't have any time. That is why I am talking to you, because I know you eventually want more time in your life. So let's see how ..."

Got the idea?

It is polite to agree with the other person, and it opens up the lines of communication so your message can be heard.