How do I argue better, especially where figures are involved?

  • Thread starter Thread starter å¬¸å å ¿
  • Start date Start date
Å

å¬¸å å ¿

Guest
I'm not very quick on my feet or witty or anything like that but I'm very good at providing dry correct absolutely factual information. Example - There was a bit of a debate about tardiness at work, while Mr Convincing Clever Guy was swaying the crowd, I simply pulled up the key-card login files for the month with everyone entry and exit times(I'm the IT guy).

A month ago, I was in the midst of a political debate re: whether a certain representative goes one way or another, I pulled up the bill, the votes for and against, his vote and the article stating that the law had been consequently passed. In both cases, I was right beyond discussion but I seem to win the battle and lose the war sometimes. Is there any way to prove your point beyond a shadow of a doubt and not irritate people.
 
Yes. It is a bit like being a good sport. If you "Win" make sure you thank the competition. Honor their opinion and state how you understand why they would think the way they do.

I understand why you would want to be late to work. I would like to be late to work too. But here are the rules. And here are the facts. Would you like to write a proposal to the management to make a change? I can help you write it if you like.

It's so hard to figure out what is going on in politics all the time. Let me show you why I think the way I do. I understand there are probably facts supporting your position too. I would be glad to look at them. But, you can see how I think the way I do with this information. If you show me something different I will be glad to consider changing my mind,

Join them in the search for the truth. You already know the outcome, but don't let them know you know.

It's a bit like being a good sport. Only a jerk wins and then rubs their opponent's nose in the win. If you win, shake hands. If you lose, shake hands.
 
Back
Top