The Hand Framework for Persuasive Speeches:

1. Thumb - The Goal
   • What you want your audience to dd, and why they aren't doing it already?
   • Shapes every part of your talk
2. Index Finger - The Hook
   • Start strong to grab attention
   • Options:
     • Personal story (builds trust)
     • Problem story (sets up challenge)
     • Curiosity story (opens a loop)
     • One surprising statistic
     • One thought-provoking question
3. Middle Finger - The Hold
   • Deliver core content with clear structure
   • Use 3, 2, or 1:
     • Three steps for teaching a process
     • Two points for contrast or reframing
     • One big idea to cut through noise
4. Ring Finger - The Hurdle
   • Address why they haven't acted already
   • Common hurdles:
     • Skill Set — They don’t know what to do. Clear the fog. Give the first step.
     • Mindset — They’re afraid to act. Reframe the risk. Help them feel safe.
     • Tool Set — They lack the tools. Give them what they need—a case study, checklist, or walkthrough.
   • Show empathy and understanding
5. Pinky - The Handoff
   • Make next steps clear
   • Show impact of saying yes
   • Script the next move
   • Give something tangible to remember

Key takeaway: Don't just inform - move people to act with this simple, memorable framework.

For more tips on creating persuasive speeches, refer to the accompanying one-page PDF.

Winning Edge gives you the tools you need to lead and influence in the political and policy arenas. Every other week, Winning Edge releases short (approximately 5-minute) spots—or “snacks”—focused on one of four areas: fundraising, media, policy, or persuasion.

For more, visit our website: www.thecommonwealthpartners.com