Persuasion is one of the most valuable skills a leader can master. It is not about winning arguments or dominating conversations, but about inspiring confidence, building trust, and creating alignment. Leaders from It’s Personal Stories shared their experiences and advice on becoming more persuasive in business and in life.

1. Build Trust Through Consistency

Rosanna Maietta, President & CEO of the American Hotel & Lodging Association, shared: “You can’t persuade anyone if they don’t trust you first. Consistency in how you show up and how you treat people makes your voice more powerful.” Trust, she reminds us, is the true foundation of influence.

2. Listen First, Then Speak

Geoff Ballotti, President & CEO of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, stressed that persuasion is grounded in listening: “You can’t persuade anyone if you don’t understand where they’re coming from. Listening is half the battle.” By showing respect for others’ perspectives through active listening, leaders build the trust needed to influence outcomes.

3. Tell Stories, Not Just Facts

Anthony Melchiorri, host of Hotel Impossible, observed: “People remember stories, not data points. If you want to move someone, tie your point to a story they can feel.” Emotional connection often proves more powerful than logic alone. Emotions compel action!

4. Clarity Over Complexity

Rachel Humphrey, Co-Founder of It’s Personal Stories and Founder of Women in Hospitality Leadership Alliance, emphasized that persuasive communication begins with preparation and purpose. She noted that she is “always going to be the most prepared person in the room,” and that knowing her audience, mastering her subject, and eliminating distractions – “no filler words” and complete focus—make her message land with greater impact. This preparation, she said, allows her to speak with confidence and communicate clearly.

‍5. Confidence Without Arrogance

Mike Deitemeyer, EVP of Rockbridge Holdings, shared: “Persuasion is about conviction, not ego. If you speak with confidence but remain open to others, people are more likely to follow you.” Confidence balanced with humility creates an inviting, rather than intimidating, presence.

6. Persistence Pays Off

Jagruti Panwala, past Chair of AAHOA and CEO of Wealth Protection Strategies, reminded us that persuasion is rarely instant: “Sometimes it takes several conversations for people to come around. Don’t give up too quickly, persistence often makes the difference.” Patience and consistency help leaders win support over time.

Closing Thought

Persuasion is not a single skill but a combination of trust, empathy, storytelling, clarity, confidence, and persistence. As these hospitality leaders remind us, it is less about convincing and more about connecting. By building trust, speaking authentically, and staying the course, leaders can not only persuade others but also inspire them to act.