How to Persuade in 5 Minutes Using the SCQA Framework

Convince Me

You have 5 minutes and your time starts now!

You have worked on this proposal for weeks; you know it inside out and have prepared a 15-page report. You finally manage to get an appointment with the key decision maker, and you are told:

“He hasn’t read the report, you have five minutes to state your case. He’ll see you in 10 minutes.”

Can you persuade someone in 10 minutes or less? Yes, you can – if you use the SCQA story structure.

Here is how it works:

SCQA storyline

• Situation – Who or what we are talking about?
• Complication – What is wrong?
• Question – What are we trying to solve?
• Answer – Our solution/recommendation

Here is an example:

Situation
The Bridge Road trees are dropping seeds that are causing people to slip. There have been six falls in the last two months.

Complication
The council is open to being sued unless we act.

Question
What is the best tree to plant and what are the costs involved?

Answer
We recommend replacing the trees with the native Waterhousea floribunda, an evergreen tree that is hardy, disease-resistant, and poses minimal risks to pedestrians.

This presentation is clear, direct and informative, and contains a synopsis of what they need to know to make a decision.

You now have the opportunity to dive deeper into your report and answer any questions or concerns they may have.

Give it a try and let me know how you go.