The following 10 elements will help you form a more persuasive personality.

1. Image. The image we create is divided into three categories: visual, vocal and verbal. Visual image is by far the most powerful. People are conditioned to evaluate what they see and form an instant opinion. The way we look will often determine the outcome of a sales presentation, a negotiation, a political campaign or a job interview. Image is a high priority to powerful persuaders.

Effective vocal image is enthusiasm. By developing an energetic and enthusiastic tone of voice, powerful persuaders create interest in the listener and ensure a high level of retention in what they say.

Verbal acuity, knowing how to put words together to motivate others, is a skill constantly practiced by powerful persuaders.

2. Knowledge. Persuasive people know their subject. They read trade magazines, attend peer meetings, go to seminars and join trade associations. They know that gathering knowledge is a lifelong process. People will listen carefully if they believe you know what you are talking about.

3. Confidence. Successful people have an inner confidence which comes from knowing themselves. They are not pushy or brash, but have an assertive air about them that translates into a can-do attitude. Confident people make things happen.

4. Credibility. Don’t make promises you can’t keep. Powerful persuaders meet deadlines, show up at meetings on time and always do what they say they will do.

5. Communication. The best persuaders are articulate. Their speech is grammatically correct and they avoid slang expressions which create hesitancy and cause people to doubt the strength of their arguments.

6. Persistence. Winners don’t quit! Any good salesperson will tell you some of the best sales were the hardest to get. Someone who takes a long time to make a decision will often take a long time to change it. Powerful persuaders have the persistence to overcome obstacles. Their determination keeps them going while others give up the cause.

7. Benefits. Powerful persuaders know that people will respond if they see benefits to themselves or their company. Put yourself in the mind of the person you are trying to persuade. Know the benefits before trying to persuade someone and he or she will be much more receptive to your way of thinking.

8. Motivation. Powerful persuaders create incentives for achievement and reward success. They lead by example. They are not afraid to get down in the trenches with the troops, inspiring others to do the very best they can. They stand by their team when they come under fire, praising good work and reacting quickly to deal with problems. Like the best generals throughout history, persuasive managers gain respect and admiration from their team, driving them to the peak of their ability.

9. Visibility. Powerful persuaders get out of the office and see as many people connected with their business as possible. They visit customers, suppliers, and dealers regularly, and maintain a high profile within the company.

10. Silence. When you get what you want, shut up. Change the subject or end the conversation completely. Don’t try to oversell your ideas. Having the patience to remain silent is an essential tool of the powerful persuader. Realize the power of silence.

The 10 elements of the persuasive personality do not come naturally, but must be honed to perfection through constant practice.