The friendly art of persuasion

The ability to persuade is a critical skill for the health care professional in relating to employees, colleagues, and groups of individuals if health care objectives are to be promoted. However, persuasion is an art, which requires careful preplanning and deliberative actions if it is to be carried out successfully. Persuasion done in a friendly manner is more likely to be effective. This article provides techniques that will enable the health care professional to use persuasive methods most advantageously.