Speak Method Pro

Persuading people in everyday life follows the exact same logic as pitching a tech stack: you connect past experience to present impact using the present perfect tense (has/have + past participle).

Whether you’re pitching a new taco spot or convincing your partner to adopt a second dog, here is how to win them over!

5 Casual Ways to Convince Someone Using the Present Perfect

1. Leverage Hype & Glowing Reviews

Show that the choice is a guaranteed hit based on what others have said up until now.

• Pattern: Everyone / The reviews + have [past participle]…
• Example: “I have heard amazing things about their wood-fired pizza—everyone says it’s the best in town!”

2. Remind Them of Past Hits

Build trust by bringing up similar choices that turned out great in the past.

• Pattern: Remember when we… / Every time we’ve [past participle]…
• Example: “Every time we have tried a place recommended by Sarah, we have loved it. She recommended this bistro!”

3. Highlight Your Own Pre-Research

Prove that you aren’t picking at random—you’ve already done the legwork.

• Pattern: I have [past participle] + [evidence/action].
• Example: “I have checked their menu online, and they have included plenty of gluten-free options for you.”

4. Play the “It’s Been Too Long” Card

Create a friendly nudge by pointing out a track record of neglect or routine.

• Pattern: We haven’t [past participle] + [fun activity] + in a while!
• Example: “We haven’t eaten Thai food in months, and this place just opened down the street.”

5. Knock Down Objections Preemptively

Anticipate their hesitation (parking, line, cost) and show you’ve already handled it.

• Pattern: Don’t worry, I have already [past participle]…
• Example: “Don’t worry about the wait—I have already booked a table for 7:00 PM!”

10 Casual Speaking Questions for Practice

Use these questions to practice speaking naturally with friends, a language partner, or by recording yourself. Keep an eye out for the present perfect in your answers!

1. What new restaurant or coffee shop have you visited recently that blew you away?
2. Have you ever convinced a friend to watch a movie or show they initially didn’t want to see?
3. What dish has become your absolute go-to comfort food this year?
4. Have you checked out any local spots or events in your city lately?
5. What is the most unusual food you have ever eaten, and would you order it again?
6. How have you persuaded your spouse or family to pick a vacation spot in the past?
7. Have you already made plans for this weekend, or is your schedule wide open?
8. What place has earned a spot on your ultimate food bucket list?
9. Have you ever had an unexpectedly incredible meal at a total hole-in-the-wall place?
10. What house chore or project have you put off for way too long?

Advance Your English with One-to-One Classes. Get 2 Free Classes When You Refer a Friend Now! Help your friend Schedule a Consultation.