Describe a person who persuaded you to do something
Describe a person who persuaded you to do something. You should say:
- When it happened
- What he/she persuaded you to do
- Why he/she persuaded you to do it
- Whether you did it at last
💡 You have 1 minute to prepare and should speak for 1-2 minutes.
When it happened?
It was about two years ago when I was contemplating taking a gap year before pursuing my higher education. During this period, my friend Aman, who is quite charismatic, approached me with a compelling proposal. We had been friends since childhood, and he had just returned from an enriching volunteering experience abroad.
What he/she persuaded you to do?
Aman persuaded me to join him on an international volunteering program in Nepal. The idea was to work with underprivileged children and help improve their educational facilities. At first, I was apprehensive about the commitment and the financial aspect, but Aman painted a vivid picture of the life-changing experiences we would encounter. He emphasized the impact we could make and how it would be a transformative experience for both the children and us.
Why he/she persuaded you to do it?
His reasons were heartfelt; he genuinely believed in the value of giving back to the community and claimed that this experience would not only be fulfilling but also beneficial for our personal growth. He shared his own experiences about how volunteering had opened his eyes to the world and made him more appreciative of what he had. Aman’s passion was infectious, and it started to resonate with me.
Whether you did it at last?
Eventually, I decided to take the plunge and join him on this adventure. The experience was truly transformative. We spent three months in a small village, where we taught English and helped renovate schools. Not only did I learn invaluable skills and gain confidence in my abilities, but I also formed deep connections with the children and the community. In hindsight, I am incredibly grateful to Aman for his persuasive nature and for leading me to such an enriching experience that I might have otherwise missed out on. The lessons I learned and the friendships I forged are treasures that I will carry with me for life.
How did this person approach you when they were trying to persuade you?
Aman approached me in a very friendly and enthusiastic manner. He began by sharing his own experiences from his trip, using vivid descriptions that painted a picture of the incredible moments he had. His genuine excitement was contagious, and he made it seem like an adventure rather than a commitment. He also listened to my concerns carefully and addressed them thoughtfully, which made me feel respected and valued. This approach significantly lowered my resistance and opened me up to the idea.
What made you hesitant to do what they were asking at first?
Initially, I hesitated due to financial concerns and the fear of stepping out of my comfort zone. The thought of leaving home for an extended period was daunting, and I was unsure if I was ready for such a significant change. Additionally, my academic goals were pressing, and I worried that taking a gap year might set me back. These factors created a mental barrier that I needed to overcome before I could fully embrace Aman's proposal.
Were you influenced by their personality or the way they communicated with you?
Absolutely, Aman's charismatic personality played a crucial role in influencing my decision. He communicated with such passion and conviction that it was hard not to feel inspired. His ability to articulate his thoughts clearly and engagingly made the idea seem not just appealing, but also important. The way he shared his stories made me envision myself in those scenarios, which significantly swayed my feelings towards the opportunity.
Did you feel that their reasons for persuading you were valid or convincing?
Yes, I found Aman's reasons very valid and convincing. He spoke from personal experience, which added weight to his arguments. His emphasis on personal growth and the chance to make a difference in the lives of others resonated deeply with my values. I appreciated that he didn’t just focus on the fun aspects but also highlighted the challenges we might face, which made his perspective more authentic. This honesty made it easier for me to trust his judgment.
- • Use the 1-minute preparation time to make notes and organize your thoughts
- • Speak for the full 1-2 minutes - don't stop too early
- • Use past tense when describing experiences or events
- • Include specific details and examples to make your answer interesting
- • Practice transitions between different points in your answer
- • Stay calm if you can't think of a perfect example - any relevant story works