Although sometimes used as a pejorative term in contemporary politics, "rhetoric" is simply the art of finding the most appropriate means of persuasion for any given situation. All communication is an attempt to persuade; to elicit an action, change an opinion, or engender a belief in the hearer. Oral communication can be left to chance or particular choices regarding rhetorical devices and other proven oral communication techniques can be made to enhance the prospects of successful persuasion.

Speechwriting is one of the communication tasks I enjoy most. Success requires building a close relationship with the speaker, developing a sense of that person's syntax and style, and understanding the intended audience.