Action

Definition

In the context of persuasion, action refers to the specific behaviors or steps that a speaker wants their audience to take after being influenced by a message. This element is crucial because it ties together all preceding elements in a persuasive framework, guiding the audience towards a clear and achievable response.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The action step in persuasion is often the final component of a structured approach like Monroe's motivated sequence, which emphasizes moving from gaining attention to calling for action.
2. A clear action request should be specific and realistic, providing the audience with a tangible way to respond, such as signing a petition or making a donation.
3. Effective calls to action often incorporate emotional appeals, using urgency or personal relevance to motivate the audience's response.
4. The action requested should align with the overall goals of the persuasive message, ensuring that it feels like a natural progression from the previous points made.
5. Reinforcement of the desired action may be needed through follow-up communications or reminders to encourage the audience to follow through.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of action fit into a persuasive speech structure and what role does it play?
  • Action is the culminating point in a persuasive speech structure, specifically in frameworks like Monroe's motivated sequence. It serves as the call for the audience to perform a specific behavior after they have been engaged and informed. This step is essential because it translates the emotional and rational appeals made earlier into a concrete response, ensuring that the speaker's message leads to tangible outcomes.
• What are some effective strategies for creating a compelling call to action that resonates with an audience?
  • To create a compelling call to action, speakers should ensure that their request is specific and realistic, providing clear steps for the audience to take. Incorporating emotional appeals can also enhance resonance, making the action feel urgent or personally relevant. Additionally, linking the call to previous points in the speech helps reinforce its importance and relevance, encouraging the audience to follow through.
• Evaluate how different types of audiences might require different approaches when crafting an action step in persuasive communication.
  • Different audiences may have varying levels of motivation, knowledge, and willingness to engage with the proposed action step. For example, a highly engaged audience might respond well to an assertive call for immediate action, while a less engaged audience may require more background information and emotional appeal before they are ready to act. Tailoring the action step based on audience demographics and psychological factors can significantly impact its effectiveness, making it crucial for speakers to understand their listeners' needs and perspectives.

Related terms

Persuasion: The process of convincing someone to do or believe something through reasoning or argument.

Call to Action: A statement designed to elicit an immediate response from the audience, typically urging them to take a specific action.

Motivation: The internal drive that prompts individuals to act, influenced by personal desires and external factors.