THE TOOLKIT
The Balanced Argument (The Strategic Argument)
There are a number of ways to present your point of view and argue your case. The most direct and perhaps most common is The Argument. However, you can increase your persuasiveness sometimes by providing a more balanced message that also comes across more strategic because you demonstrate that you’ve considered various perspectives. The idea behind this template is that by iterating, not advocating, an opposing point of view, you communicate a broader understanding of the topic and its implications. This template is broken out into three elements:
- Your View & Support: Structure your viewpoint or recommendation. Do this by establishing a clear, concise position statement in the form of a Headline. Then, you share your business case by creating a clear, organized directory. You can refer to the Top 10 Business Cases in order to outline the benefit of your position. Basically, use The Argument to create the first part of your message.
- Opposing View & Support: Sketch out the opposing viewpoint and support. This should be done in a genuine, professional manner. One of the keys to using this template is to avoid minimizing or degrading the opposing point of view. Use the Top 10 Business Cases to clearly outline the opposing case as well. After doing so, you should see that your argument is stronger in quality and quantity. If not, then it may be time to reconsider your position and/or the case you are trying to build.
- Recommendation: Provide your final suggestion, recommendation, or action to reinforce your position. This may be simply reiterating your original point of view. Use a lead-in like the ones below to come across as deliberative and truly considering various viewpoints:
- “Taking into consideration both positions, I believe…
- “On balance, I would still say…
- “After looking at it from all angles, I would recommend…
Objectives
Persuasiveness is a key skill in business. However, the ability to influence others is an artform. This tool helps you structure your message while also acknowledging an opposing point of view for greater influence. The Balanced Argument accomplishes the following objectives:
- Builds your argument in a clear, organized manner.
- Outlines your case clearly for a more compelling message.
- Acknowledges opposing viewpoints demonstrating a broader, more strategic understanding.
Directions
The following steps should be completed when filling out this form:
- Write out your argument by filling in your position statement (Headline) and business case (Directory).
- Complete the second part of the template by filling in the opposing argument’s position and business case. Your business case should be stronger and more compelling than the opposing view; otherwise, you risk your persuasiveness.
- Fill in the last box with your recommendation also known as an “on balance” statement. These conclusionary remarks should be stated in a manner that communicates you’ve considered all sides of the issue.
Instructions
When you are ready to share your balanced argument, follow this order:
- State your Headline (position statement).
- Share each of your Directory points (business case) from left to right including the support for each.
- State the opposing point of view and their business case in a respectful, professional manner. If you minimize the opposing argument or share it in a condescending or dismissive manner, you jeopardize your objectivity and credibility when using this tool.
- Conclude by restating your recommendation or suggestion.