Question

Which of the following is not likely to make the communicator more persuasive?

a) being around the same age as the audience.
b) maintaining eye contact with the audience.
c) speaking slowly to ensure it is easy to understand.
d) being physically attractive.

Answer 1

Speaking slowly is not likely to make the communicator more persuasive, as this could be interpreted as a lack of confidence. Factors like attractiveness, credibility, and eye contact are more impactful in increasing persuasiveness.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question aims to identify which option is not likely to make the communicator more persuasive. A communicator's attractiveness, whether they maintain eye contact, and their perceived credibility are all factors that can enhance persuasiveness. However, speaking slowly may not necessarily increase persuasiveness; in fact, it might signal a lack of confidence or clarity if overdone. Understanding audience features and integrating effective communication techniques, such as direct eye contact and credible messaging, are essential to persuasion. The peripheral route persuasion often relies on factors like attractiveness or celebrity endorsements rather than on the substance of the message, which involves engaging the audience analytically and motivating them to process the message.