I haven't seen too much here on the topic. I canvass for a living so talking is a big part of how I make money. We have a lot of training on what's effective communication and this is a good one for anybody who doesn't have a grasp on it.

Cut out all the weak language. For instance you're never "trying to do" something. You are doing it. For the most part cut out "maybe"'s, commit to a yes or a no. Weak language makes it easier to dismiss you and when it's convenient for them people will. For example the difference of "Well 8 would be better for me," as apposed to "8 would be best."

There are too many words to go over all of them but stay convicted and be a person of passion. Start to notice when you do it to yourself and start to cut it out of your speech. The two big ones that get a lot of people are "um" and constantly saying "like" in the middle of your damn sentences.

When you use strong language, speak confidently and I've found with a smile you'll find people a lot more receptive to everything you say. When you talk with a smile your words will even sound happier and by effect more positive.

Edit: "8 would be better"->"8 would be best." Fuck it, we're on the internet, let's shoot for perfection.

Edit2: Final sentence on smiling & typos

Edit3: Another pro tip from your friendly neighborhood canvassers, end your sentences on a down tone. This one is hard to communicate over the keyboard but ending your sentence with a higher pitched syllable is weaker speaking then ending it with a lower then standard pitched syllable. Say a sentence out loud to see what I'm talking about. Just talk normal and then end your last word on a down tone. Try it the other way and you sound ten times less like Harrison Ford. THis IS THE WRONG DIRECTION TO GO ON THE HARRISON FORD SCALE.