Describe a Person Who Persuaded You to Do Something

Describe a Person Who Persuaded You to Do Something

• When it happened?
• What he/she persuaded you to do?
• Why he/she persuaded you to do it?
• Whether you did it at last?

One person who successfully persuaded me to do something meaningful was my elder sister, Simran. She convinced me to join a public-speaking club at my college called The Orators’ Forum. At that time, I was extremely shy and terrified of speaking in front of others, but Simran believed that learning to express myself confidently would help me both academically and professionally.

Initially, I was hesitant. I thought people would laugh at my accent or grammar mistakes. But Simran patiently explained how public speaking could improve my communication skills, leadership qualities, and self-confidence. She even showed me videos of famous Indian speakers like Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam and Sandeep Maheshwari, which really inspired me.

Finally, I attended one meeting to make her happy—but that single session changed everything. The members were welcoming, the environment was positive, and for the first time, I felt that I could speak without being judged. Within a few months, I was giving small speeches and later even hosted a college event!

This experience completely transformed me. Not only did I become more expressive, but it also helped me perform better in interviews and presentations. I’m genuinely grateful to Simran for pushing me out of my comfort zone. Her gentle persuasion made me realise that sometimes, one small step can change your entire perspective.

💬 Follow-up Questions

1. What qualities make someone a good persuader?

A good persuader is confident, empathetic, and logical. They understand the listener’s perspective and use reasoning rather than pressure. For instance, in India, teachers and mentors often persuade students by giving real-life examples, which makes their arguments more relatable. Effective persuaders also communicate clearly and calmly, so their message feels genuine and trustworthy. In my view, persuasion works best when it’s based on respect and emotional connection rather than manipulation.

2. Do you think persuasion is more about emotion or logic?

I believe it’s a combination of both, but emotion often plays a stronger role. Logical reasoning appeals to the mind, while emotional appeal touches the heart. For example, a friend convincing you to volunteer for a charity might use emotion by talking about helping others, not statistics. In India, people tend to respond more positively when persuasion feels heartfelt rather than purely intellectual. The best persuaders balance both elements effectively.

3. How has social media changed the way people persuade others today?

Social media has completely transformed persuasion. Earlier, people influenced others through face-to-face communication or advertisements, but now a single post can reach millions instantly. Influencers, politicians, and brands use emotional storytelling, visuals, and trends to persuade audiences. However, it has also created misinformation and fake persuasion tactics. In India, digital platforms like Instagram and YouTube have become powerful tools for shaping opinions, especially among young people who trust online voices more than traditional ads.

4. Are people more easily influenced by family and friends than by strangers?

Yes, absolutely. Family and friends have emotional credibility, which makes their opinions more persuasive. We tend to trust those who genuinely care for us. In Indian culture, where family bonds are powerful, decisions about education, marriage, and career are often influenced by loved ones. Strangers, on the other hand, lack that emotional connection. However, in some cases—such as professional advice—people may trust experts even if they are not personally known to them.

5. Can parents persuade their children to do things that are good for them? Give examples.

Definitely, parents play a crucial role in shaping their children’s behaviour and values. For instance, in India, parents often persuade kids to eat healthy food, study regularly, or respect elders by explaining the long-term benefits rather than forcing them. When persuasion is done lovingly, children tend to accept it more willingly. My own parents used to motivate me to read the newspaper daily, and now I realise how that habit improved my vocabulary and awareness.

6. Do young people find it easy to resist peer pressure?

Not always. Many young people struggle to resist peer pressure because they fear being judged or left out. In India, for example, college students often feel pressured to dress a certain way or join parties to fit in. However, with maturity and self-awareness, they learn to make independent decisions. Schools and parents can help by building students’ confidence and teaching them that saying “no” is sometimes the most courageous choice they can make.

7. How do advertisements persuade people to buy products they may not need?

Advertisements persuade people through emotional appeal, celebrity endorsements, and lifestyle imagery. They create a sense of desire or fear of missing out. For example, in India, ads often feature happy families using a particular brand, leading consumers to believe that buying the product will bring happiness. Clever slogans and attractive visuals also play a significant role. The problem is that many people buy impulsively, influenced by feelings rather than actual need or usefulness.

8. Do you think persuasive skills are essential in modern workplaces?

Yes, persuasive skills are essential today. Whether you’re presenting an idea, negotiating with clients, or leading a team, you need to convince others effectively. In Indian workplaces, firm persuasion helps professionals gain trust and inspire cooperation. It’s not about manipulation but about communicating your vision clearly and respectfully—employees who can influence decisions positively often become great leaders. In short, persuasion is a valuable professional asset in any modern organisation.