Whether writing an essay for your prof, content for your blog, or articles for your publisher, knowing how to influence your audience will bring the grades and the followers you want!
What do you know (not know) about the audience?
The first thing to remember when writing an assignment, whether for a teacher or publisher, is that these individuals are not your audience. Sure, you need to impress the teacher and the boss, but you will not impress them if you write from their point of view. You will sound like a butt-kisser. The impact of the message you want to convey depends on your ability to influence the audience you are trying to persuade. Persuade your audience-impress, your boss/teacher.
Here are some questions to ask about WHO your audience is for a particular message.
Who are the people you want to convey the message you writing about to? (women, elderly, athletes, medical professionals, etc.) Your topic or message may be too broad if you do not know who your specific audience is before writing.
Is the audience more persuaded by logic, emotion, or the speaker’s credibility? Knowing how your audience perceives information will help you decide what evidence you choose to appeal to them.
What does the audience already know? What does the audience need to know? Repeating information your audience already has will not help you sway or influence them; however, driving a new perspective about the issue or topic will build your ethos and possibly change the mindset of your audience.
What beliefs and values does the audience have? Before soliciting any argument or information, you need to know what ideas and values your audience holds. This is job interview logic 101. If you want your audience to listen to you, then speak directly to them.
Is there more than one audience? Who is the primary audience? Secondary? Sometimes your ideas are meant for a specific audience, but there are times when you will need to consider the values and interests of others who may come across your piece. Those who already agree or will never agree with your ideas, yet your content may still impact how they feel or think.
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