Winning Edge

#7 Persuade with Visuals


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  • This episode focuses on showing rather than just talking about a graph
  • First, ask if the chosen graph type (line, bar, stacked bar, etc.) is the best fit
  • Decide on the emotion you want to evoke in your target audience (surprise, outrage, curiosity, etc.)
  • For this example, the goal is to create curiosity and encourage the decision-maker to ask questions
  • To simplify and clean up a graph, remember LLC: Lines, Labels, and Colors
    • Lines: Remove unnecessary lines, including grid lines, to reduce visual clutter
    • Labels: Simplify labels on the X and Y axes, remove data labels, and label data directly when possible
    • Colors: Use consistent coloring on the graph and labels
  • These steps make the graph more persuasive and easier to understand quickly


Check out
the one-page PDF for a visual representation of these tips.


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.

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Winning EdgeBy Commonwealth Partners