# Speaking to Persuade: Motivating Audiences wit… Review (2026) — 7.6/10 > Independent review of Speaking to Persuade: Motivating Audiences with Solid Arguments and Moving Language on Coursera. Rated 7.6/10 by our editorial team. Pr… Business & Management Courses Speaking to Persuade: Motivating Audiences with Solid Arguments and Moving Language ![Speaking to Persuade: Motivating Audiences with Solid Arguments and Moving Language](/api/media/file/hero/speaking-to-persuade-motivating-audiences-course.webp?width=800) # Speaking to Persuade: Motivating Audiences with Solid Arguments and Moving Language Course — Review (7.6/10) This course equips learners with foundational skills in persuasive speaking, blending logic and emotion effectively. It's practical for professionals in advocacy, business, or leadership roles. While ... Explore This Course 🎟️ Coursera Discount Offer Explore This Course Speaking to Persuade: Motivating Audiences with Solid Arguments and Moving Language is a 8 weeks online beginner-level course on Coursera by University of Washington that covers business & management. This course equips learners with foundational skills in persuasive speaking, blending logic and emotion effectively. It's practical for professionals in advocacy, business, or leadership roles. While the content is solid, some may find the pacing slow and supplementary materials limited. Best suited for beginners seeking structured guidance in public persuasion. We rate it 7.6/10. ## Prerequisites No prior experience required. This course is designed for complete beginners in business & management. ## Pros - Teaches how to structure persuasive arguments logically and clearly - Emphasizes audience awareness and emotional resonance in speech - Includes practical exercises for real-world application - Developed by a reputable university with academic rigor ## Cons - Limited depth in advanced rhetorical techniques - Few downloadable resources or reference materials - Peer feedback system can be inconsistent ## Speaking to Persuade: Motivating Audiences with Solid Arguments and Moving Language Course Review Platform: Coursera Instructor: University of Washington Updated May 7, 2026·Editorial Standards·How We Rate ## What will you learn in Speaking to Persuade: Motivating Audiences with Solid Arguments and Moving Language course - Construct persuasive arguments that are clear, logical, and audience-appropriate - Identify pressing problems and frame them effectively to raise awareness - Develop solutions supported by strong reasoning and evidence - Use emotionally resonant language to motivate and inspire action - Structure speeches with a clear call to action and practical next steps ### Program Overview ### Module 1: Understanding Persuasion 2 weeks - Defining persuasion vs. argumentation - Elements of a persuasive message - Analyzing audience needs and values ### Module 2: Building a Strong Argument 2 weeks - Identifying core problems - Supporting claims with evidence - Addressing counterarguments ### Module 3: Crafting the Persuasive Speech 2 weeks - Structuring the speech: opening, body, close - Using rhetorical devices and emotional appeal - Integrating storytelling for impact ### Module 4: Delivering with Confidence 2 weeks - Practicing vocal variety and body language - Handling Q&A and objections - Final peer-reviewed speech submission ### Get certificate #### Job Outlook - Essential for leadership, management, and public-facing roles - High demand in fundraising, sales, and nonprofit advocacy - Valuable for entrepreneurs pitching to investors ## Editorial Take The University of Washington's 'Speaking to Persuade' course on Coursera offers a focused, accessible entry point into the art of persuasive communication. Designed for professionals across sectors, it emphasizes clarity, logic, and emotional appeal—critical components for influencing audiences in nonprofit, corporate, or entrepreneurial settings. ### Standout Strengths - Structured Argument Framework: The course breaks down persuasion into digestible components, teaching learners how to identify core problems and build evidence-based claims. This foundation helps users avoid emotional appeals without substance, a common pitfall in public speaking. - Audience-Centric Approach: Learners are guided to analyze their audience's values, knowledge level, and potential objections. This focus ensures messages are tailored and more likely to resonate, increasing the likelihood of behavioral or attitudinal change. - Emotional and Logical Balance: The curriculum successfully integrates pathos and logos, teaching when to use storytelling and when to rely on data. This dual emphasis makes the course valuable for both nonprofit advocates and business professionals pitching ideas. - Practical Speech Application: The final project requires learners to deliver a full persuasive speech, integrating all course concepts. This hands-on component reinforces learning and builds confidence in real-world delivery. - University-Level Instruction: Developed by the University of Washington, the course carries academic credibility with well-organized content and clear learning objectives. The production quality and instructor guidance reflect institutional standards. - Flexible Learning Format: Hosted on Coursera, the course allows self-paced study with subtitles and mobile access. This flexibility makes it accessible to working professionals across time zones and schedules. ### Honest Limitations - Limited Advanced Techniques: While excellent for beginners, the course doesn't delve deeply into advanced rhetorical devices or psychological persuasion models. Learners with prior experience may find some content repetitive or oversimplified. - Inconsistent Peer Feedback: The reliance on peer-reviewed assignments can lead to uneven quality in feedback. Some learners report receiving minimal or unhelpful comments, reducing the value of collaborative learning. - Few Supplementary Materials: The course provides minimal downloadable resources, such as speech templates or checklists. Learners must create their own reference tools, which could hinder retention and application. - Narrow Focus on Speech Only: The curriculum centers on spoken persuasion, with little attention to written or digital formats. Professionals needing to craft persuasive emails, proposals, or social media content may need to adapt concepts independently. ### How to Get the Most Out of It - Study cadence: Dedicate 3–4 hours per week consistently to stay on track and internalize concepts. Spacing out study sessions improves retention and speech preparation. - Parallel project: Apply lessons to a real-life proposal or presentation at work. Practicing on actual projects increases relevance and skill transfer. - Note-taking: Create personalized templates for argument structure and speech outlines. These become reusable tools beyond the course. - Community: Engage actively in discussion forums to exchange feedback and ideas. Peer interaction enhances learning despite the peer-review limitations. - Practice: Record and review your speeches to improve delivery. Self-assessment helps refine vocal tone, pacing, and body language. - Consistency: Complete assignments on schedule to maintain momentum. Delaying tasks can disrupt the learning curve and reduce confidence. ### Supplementary Resources - Book: 'Talk Like TED' by Carmine Gallo complements the course with insights on emotional delivery and storytelling techniques used by top speakers. - Tool: Use Canva or PowerPoint to design visual aids that support your persuasive speech, even if not required in the course. - Follow-up: Enroll in Coursera's 'Communication Strategies for a Virtual Age' to extend skills to digital platforms and remote settings. - Reference: The 'Oxford Handbook of Rhetorical Studies' offers deeper academic context for those interested in theoretical foundations. ### Common Pitfalls - Pitfall: Overloading speeches with data while neglecting emotional appeal. Balancing logic with storytelling is essential for true persuasion, not just information transfer. - Pitfall: Ignoring audience analysis. Failing to research listeners' values and concerns can result in messages that miss the mark or provoke resistance. - Pitfall: Relying too heavily on peer feedback quality. Since reviews vary, learners should seek additional input from mentors or colleagues when possible. ### Time & Money ROI - Time: At 8 weeks and 3 hours per week, the time investment is manageable for working professionals and yields practical, immediately applicable skills. - Cost-to-value: As a paid course, it offers solid value for beginners, though the lack of extensive resources may limit long-term reference utility. - Certificate: The Course Certificate adds credibility to resumes, especially for roles requiring public speaking, fundraising, or leadership. - Alternative: Free public speaking resources exist, but this course's structured curriculum and academic backing justify the cost for serious learners. ### Editorial Verdict This course fills a critical gap for professionals who must persuade without alienating—teaching how to advocate firmly yet respectfully. The University of Washington's approach combines rhetorical theory with practical speaking exercises, making it ideal for nonprofit leaders, entrepreneurs, and managers. While it doesn't cover advanced tactics or digital formats in depth, its focus on clarity, audience analysis, and emotional resonance provides a strong foundation. The structured modules guide learners from concept to final speech, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of persuasive communication. We recommend this course primarily to early-career professionals or those transitioning into leadership roles where influence is key. The certificate adds value to resumes, and the skills are transferable across industries. However, experienced speakers may find the content too basic. For the price, the production quality and academic rigor are commendable, though supplementary materials could be richer. Overall, it's a worthwhile investment for those serious about improving their persuasive speaking abilities in a professional context—offering a balanced mix of theory, practice, and credibility. ## How Speaking to Persuade: Motivating Audiences with Solid Arguments and Moving Language Compares | Course | Platform | Rating | Level | Duration | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Speaking to Persuade: Motivating Audiences with Solid Arguments and Moving Language | Coursera | 7.6/10 | Beginner | 8 weeks | | Make Passive Income Business: Reselling Digital Portrait | Udemy | 10.0/10 | N/A | N/A | | Lead Management & Sales Stages: A Step-by-Step System | Udemy | 10.0/10 | N/A | N/A | | Negotiation Mastery Win-Win Strategies, Anchoring Persuasion Course | Udemy | 9.8/10 | N/A | N/A | ## Who Should Take Speaking to Persuade: Motivating Audiences with Solid Arguments and Moving Language? This course is best suited for learners with no prior experience in business & management. It is designed for career changers, fresh graduates, and self-taught learners looking for a structured introduction. The course is offered by University of Washington on Coursera, combining institutional credibility with the flexibility of online learning. Upon completion, you will receive a course certificate that you can add to your LinkedIn profile and resume, signaling your verified skills to potential employers. If you are exploring adjacent fields, you might also consider courses in Agile & Scrum Courses, AI Courses, Arts and Humanities Courses, which complement the skills covered in this course. ### Career Outcomes - Apply business & management skills to real-world projects and job responsibilities - Qualify for entry-level positions in business & management and related fields - Build a portfolio of skills to present to potential employers - Add a course certificate credential to your LinkedIn and resume - Continue learning with advanced courses and specializations in the field ## More Business & Management Courses on Coursera Explore other highly rated courses in business & management available on Coursera to expand your learning path: - OKR Certification: Leadership and Goal Setting Course 9.9/10 - Agile Healthy And Attractive Organizations Course 9.8/10 - Agile Accelerator Navigating Lean Startup Agile And Scrum Course 9.8/10 - Advanced Marketing Analytics Funnels And Dashboarding Course 9.8/10 - Brand Management: Aligning Business, Brand and Behaviour Course 9.8/10 - IBM Business Analyst Professional Certificate Course 9.8/10 - Xbox Product Manager Professional Certificate Course 9.8/10 - Microsoft Program Management Professional Certificate Course 9.8/10 - Adobe Marketing Specialist Professional Certificate Course 9.8/10 - Introduction to Business Specialization Course 9.8/10 ## Top Alternatives on Other Platforms Looking for a different teaching style or approach? These top-rated business & management courses from other platforms cover similar ground: - Make Passive Income Business: Reselling Digital Portrait 10.0/10 Udemy - Lead Management & Sales Stages: A Step-by-Step System 10.0/10 Udemy - Negotiation Mastery Win-Win Strategies, Anchoring Persuasion Course 9.8/10 Udemy - Succeed in the Age of AI: 12 Fast Wins for Leaders 9.8/10 Udemy - Bulletproof Problem Solving Course 9.8/10 Udemy - Excel 2010 Course 9.8/10 Udemy - The Complete Shopify Dropshipping Course 9.7/10 Udemy - Data Quality Masterclass – The Complete Course 9.7/10 Udemy - UiPath 2025 – Level 1 RPA Developer Course 9.7/10 Udemy - The Real Estate Financial Modeling Bootcamp Course 9.7/10 Udemy ## More Courses from University of Washington University of Washington offers a range of courses across multiple disciplines. If you enjoy their teaching approach, consider these additional offerings: - Machine Learning: Clustering & Retrieval Course 9.7/10 - Machine Learning: Classification Course 9.7/10 - Business English: Meetings Course 9.7/10 - Business English: Networking Course 9.7/10 - Machine Learning Foundations: A Case Study Approach Course 9.7/10 - Machine Learning Specialization Course 9.7/10 - Machine Learning: Regression Course 9.7/10 - Computational Neuroscience Course 8.7/10 View all courses from University of Washington → ## Related Articles & Guides Deepen your understanding with these articles from our editorial team, covering career advice, industry trends, and learning strategies: - Build AI skills with the Google AI Professional Certificate - Python Tutorial: Best Courses to Learn Python in 2026 - CISSP vs CompTIA Security+: Which Cert Should You Pursue? - Coursera Data Analytics Professional Certificate: Worth It in 2026? - Best edX Courses in 2026: Top Picks by Enrollment and Career Value - Best Online Coursera Courses in 2026: What's Actually Worth Your Time - Udemy Online: What the Platform Actually Delivers in 2026 - OKR for Leaders: 7 Best Training Courses Compared (2026) - Generative AI for Marketing with Microsoft 365 Copilot: Professional Certificate Review - The Best React Courses in 2026, Ranked and Reviewed ## Explore All Course Categories Not sure what to learn next? Browse our full catalog of course categories to find the right fit for your career goals: Agile & Scrum Courses AI Courses Arts and Humanities Courses Business & Management Courses Cloud Computing Courses Computer Science Courses Construction Management Courses Cybersecurity Courses Data Analyst Courses Data Analytics Courses Data Engineering Courses Data Science Courses Design Courses Developer Courses Economics & Finance Courses Education & Teacher Training Courses Entrepreneurship Courses Excel Courses Finance Courses Game Development Courses Graphic Design Courses Health Science Courses Information Technology Courses Language Learning Courses Leadership Courses Lifestyle Courses Machine Learning Courses Marketing Courses Math and Logic Courses Music Courses Negotiation Courses Office Productivity Courses Other Personal Development Courses Photography & Videography Courses Physical Science and Engineering Courses Project Management Courses Python Courses SEO Courses Social Media Marketing Courses Social Sciences Courses Software Development Courses Supply Chain Management Courses Teaching Courses Uncategorized UX Design Courses Web Development Courses Explore related topics Leadership Entrepreneurship Project Management Marketing Finance Explore Related Topics Best Business & Management Courses Learning Path Best Business Courses Browse All Courses ## User Reviews No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience! ## FAQs What are the prerequisites for Speaking to Persuade: Motivating Audiences with Solid Arguments and Moving Language? No prior experience is required. Speaking to Persuade: Motivating Audiences with Solid Arguments and Moving Language is designed for complete beginners who want to build a solid foundation in Business & Management. It starts from the fundamentals and gradually introduces more advanced concepts, making it accessible for career changers, students, and self-taught learners. Does Speaking to Persuade: Motivating Audiences with Solid Arguments and Moving Language offer a certificate upon completion? Yes, upon successful completion you receive a course certificate from University of Washington. This credential can be added to your LinkedIn profile and resume, demonstrating verified skills to employers. In competitive job markets, having a recognized certificate in Business & Management can help differentiate your application and signal your commitment to professional development. How long does it take to complete Speaking to Persuade: Motivating Audiences with Solid Arguments and Moving Language? The course takes approximately 8 weeks to complete. It is offered as a paid course on Coursera, which means you can learn at your own pace and fit it around your schedule. The content is delivered in English and includes a mix of instructional material, practical exercises, and assessments to reinforce your understanding. Most learners find that dedicating a few hours per week allows them to complete the course comfortably. What are the main strengths and limitations of Speaking to Persuade: Motivating Audiences with Solid Arguments and Moving Language? Speaking to Persuade: Motivating Audiences with Solid Arguments and Moving Language is rated 7.6/10 on our platform. Key strengths include: teaches how to structure persuasive arguments logically and clearly; emphasizes audience awareness and emotional resonance in speech; includes practical exercises for real-world application. Some limitations to consider: limited depth in advanced rhetorical techniques; few downloadable resources or reference materials. Overall, it provides a strong learning experience for anyone looking to build skills in Business & Management. How will Speaking to Persuade: Motivating Audiences with Solid Arguments and Moving Language help my career? Completing Speaking to Persuade: Motivating Audiences with Solid Arguments and Moving Language equips you with practical Business & Management skills that employers actively seek. The course is developed by University of Washington, whose name carries weight in the industry. The skills covered are applicable to roles across multiple industries, from technology companies to consulting firms and startups. Whether you are looking to transition into a new role, earn a promotion in your current position, or simply broaden your professional skillset, the knowledge gained from this course provides a tangible competitive advantage in the job market. Where can I take Speaking to Persuade: Motivating Audiences with Solid Arguments and Moving Language and how do I access it? Speaking to Persuade: Motivating Audiences with Solid Arguments and Moving Language is available on Coursera, one of the leading online learning platforms. You can access the course material from any device with an internet connection — desktop, tablet, or mobile. The course is paid, giving you the flexibility to learn at a pace that suits your schedule. All you need is to create an account on Coursera and enroll in the course to get started. How does Speaking to Persuade: Motivating Audiences with Solid Arguments and Moving Language compare to other Business & Management courses? Speaking to Persuade: Motivating Audiences with Solid Arguments and Moving Language is rated 7.6/10 on our platform, placing it as a solid choice among business & management courses. Its standout strengths — teaches how to structure persuasive arguments logically and clearly — set it apart from alternatives. What differentiates each course is its teaching approach, depth of coverage, and the credentials of the instructor or institution behind it. We recommend comparing the syllabus, student reviews, and certificate value before deciding. What language is Speaking to Persuade: Motivating Audiences with Solid Arguments and Moving Language taught in? Speaking to Persuade: Motivating Audiences with Solid Arguments and Moving Language is taught in English. Many online courses on Coursera also offer auto-generated subtitles or community-contributed translations in other languages, making the content accessible to non-native speakers. The course material is designed to be clear and accessible regardless of your language background, with visual aids and practical demonstrations supplementing the spoken instruction. Is Speaking to Persuade: Motivating Audiences with Solid Arguments and Moving Language kept up to date? Online courses on Coursera are periodically updated by their instructors to reflect industry changes and new best practices. University of Washington has a track record of maintaining their course content to stay relevant. We recommend checking the "last updated" date on the enrollment page. Our own review was last verified recently, and we re-evaluate courses when significant updates are made to ensure our rating remains accurate. Can I take Speaking to Persuade: Motivating Audiences with Solid Arguments and Moving Language as part of a team or organization? Yes, Coursera offers team and enterprise plans that allow organizations to enroll multiple employees in courses like Speaking to Persuade: Motivating Audiences with Solid Arguments and Moving Language. Team plans often include progress tracking, dedicated support, and volume discounts. This makes it an effective option for corporate training programs, upskilling initiatives, or academic cohorts looking to build business & management capabilities across a group. What will I be able to do after completing Speaking to Persuade: Motivating Audiences with Solid Arguments and Moving Language? After completing Speaking to Persuade: Motivating Audiences with Solid Arguments and Moving Language, you will have practical skills in business & management that you can apply to real projects and job responsibilities. You will be prepared to pursue more advanced courses or specializations in the field. Your course certificate credential can be shared on LinkedIn and added to your resume to demonstrate your verified competence to employers. ## Similar Courses Other courses in Business & Management Courses ![Managing and Motivating Teams Course](/api/media/file/hero/managing-and-motivating-teams-course.webp?v=2?width=480) Coursera Business & Management Courses ### Managing and Motivating Teams Course ★★★½☆ Coursera View Course » Enroll ![Inspiring and Motivating Arts and Culture Teams Course](/api/media/file/hero/inspiring-and-motivating-arts-and-culture-teams-course.jpg?width=480) EDX Business & Management Courses ### Inspiring and Motivating Arts and Culture Teams Course ★★★★½ EDX View Course » Enroll ![Practical People Management: Motivating and Engaging Teams Course](/api/media/file/hero/practical-people-management-course.jpg?width=480) EDX Business & Management Courses ### Practical People Management: Motivating and Engaging Teams Course ★★★★½ EDX View Course » Enroll ![Managing High Performing Teams Course](/api/media/file/hero/managing-high-performing-teams-course.webp?v=2?width=480) Coursera Business & Management Courses ### Managing High Performing Teams Course ★★★½☆ Coursera View Course » Enroll ![Managing Hybrid & AI-Augmented Teams: The Future of Work](/api/media/file/hero/managing-hybrid-ai-augmented-teams-the-future-of-work-course.webp?v=2?width=480) Coursera Business & Management Courses ### Managing Hybrid & AI-Augmented Teams: The Future of Work ★★★½☆ Coursera View Course » Enroll ![Managing Professional Work Teams Course](/api/media/file/hero/managing-professional-work-teams-course.webp?v=2?width=480) Coursera Business & Management Courses ### Managing Professional Work Teams Course ★★★½☆ Coursera View Course » Enroll ## Related Job Opportunities ### Field Service Technician AMETEK, Inc. Remote Full-Time EUR 40–45/yr ### Sales Support & Customer Service – Assistant Commercial International (H/F) genOway Lyon, FR Full-Time EUR 36–52/yr ### Contracts Admin QCS Staffing Caen, FR Full-Time EUR 40–55/yr ### Electronics Engineer / Technician (f/m/d) European X-Ray Free-Electron Laser Facility GmbH Schenefeld, DE Full-Time ### Specialist Quality Control/NDT Technician Asc-Pty-Ltd New South Wales, AU Full-Time Browse more jobs on JobsNearMe.career → ### Explore Related Categories All Business & Management Courses Explore Course Reviews ### Review: Speaking to Persuade: Motivating Audiences with So... Your Name * Email (optional, not displayed) Rating * Your Review * ### Discover More Course Categories Explore expert-reviewed courses across every field Data Science Courses AI Courses Python Courses Machine Learning Courses Web Development Courses Cybersecurity Courses Data Analyst Courses Excel Courses Cloud & DevOps Courses UX Design Courses Project Management Courses SEO Courses Agile & Scrum Courses Marketing Courses Software Dev Courses Browse all 10,000+ courses »