A persuasive speech is meant to convince the audience of an idea. A proper persuasive speech will not try to convince the audience of something using coercion or force, but rather by establishing trust and influencing the audience through proof or evidence. A persuasive speech is aimed to give the audience new ideas, influence their values, beliefs or attitudes, and cause them to consider something they may have not been open to before.
One of the major characteristics of a persuasive speech is its content. The speech will typically identify a need or address a problem. Once the problem is identified, the speaker will then work to explain or prove a practical solution. In many cases, a persuasive speech will advocate for the audience to stop doing something. In these cases, the speaker will work to explain why the audience's current action is impractical or inefficient, as well as providing a solution. The speech content will contain proof that supports these ideas to prove a point.
A persuasive speech will have a particular flow. This flow is also known as Monroe’s motivational sequence, a five step sequence that most persuasive speeches follow. The speech will begin with a visual aid, statistic or story that engages the audience and grabs their attention. Next, the speaker will work to prove or disprove the subject of his speech. Once he has offered proof of the subject matter, the speaker will provide details of the suggested alternative as well as proof of its benefits. Finally, the speaker will attempt to inspire the audience to action.
The various methods the speaker initiates are other characteristics of persuasive speeches. The speaker will speak at a moderate pace and pause often. He will not be overly animated or impassioned. The person giving the persuasive speech will speak at a rate that does not cause the audience to view him as a "fast talker." Clear, deliberate speech allows the speaker to appear as an authority on the subject matter.
A persuasive speech will also anticipate any kind of doubts, hesitations or reservations the audience may have. The persuasive speaker should come equipped with a rebuttal and a claim for each point a doubtful member of the audience might address. The speaker will offer support to each of his claims, as well as offer an explanation of the evidence.