Saul Goodman, the charismatic and morally flexible lawyer from the popular TV show “Better Call Saul,” offers a number of lessons on charisma and persuasive communication.
Since persuasive communication is my jam and I get asked occasionally how I can be so charismatic.
Which is weird cause I don’t class my self as that. I’m just a regular silly goose who just doesn’t seem to care all too much about what people think of me.
So maybe that’s part of it?
Well, when it comes to creating characters or at least even telling a story here are some of the cool things I’ve picked up from watching Saul in the show…
Confidence: Saul exudes confidence, even when his back is against the wall. This self-assurance often convinces others to trust in his abilities and follow his lead, a key trait of charismatic individuals.
Communication Skills: Saul is a master of verbal communication. He knows how to tailor his language, tone, and pitch to suit his audience, making him highly effective at persuasion. His ability to spin any situation to his advantage is a hallmark of his character.
Humour: Saul often uses humour to disarm those around him and to diffuse tense situations. His quick wit and ability to make people laugh endear him to clients and viewers alike.
Adaptability: Saul is highly adaptable, able to shift his strategies and tactics depending on the situation. This flexibility not only helps him navigate complex legal and ethical challenges but also enhances his appeal to a broad audience.
Empathy: Although often used for manipulative purposes, Saul’s ability to understand and play into the emotions of others is a critical component of his charisma. He often portrays himself as the underdog or aligns himself with the struggles of his clients, making them feel understood and supported.
Boldness: Saul is unafraid to take risks, whether in his choice of flamboyant marketing strategies or in the courtroom. This boldness is attractive and commands attention, contributing to his charismatic image.
Resourcefulness: Saul’s ability to think on his feet and come up with creative solutions to problems is another key aspect of his charisma. He often turns seemingly hopeless situations around through sheer ingenuity.
Presentation: Saul knows the power of a strong visual presentation. His flashy suits and office decor are meticulously chosen to craft an image that is both memorable and authoritative.
Now I’d say be more Saul but you’ll need to watch out.
His methods and ethics are frequently questionable, his charismatic traits are undeniable and play a crucial role in his ability to influence and persuade others. It’s important to note that while these traits contribute to his success, they also underscore the potential dangers of charisma when detached from a strong ethical foundation.
This is why politicians, presidents and just bad people overall can end up rising to the top very quickly.
So yeah, Be more Saul but without all the bad juju.
Stephen Walker.
P.S. Picked up this poster cause it was bloody epic: Better Call Saul