Speaking with authority/leading conversation

[Searcher]

Apart from a deeper voice, speaking slowly and deliberately, taking pauses and having a loud voice.

What is considered being authoritative during conversation?
Is it asking questions more?
Using a lot of 'you' instead of 'I' in your language?

Any thoughts?

 

[lceman]

Authoritative is a style, leading is a way of interacting. Authoritative means you're coming from a place of authority; along with the things you said, it involves confidence, being commanding, and demanding/expecting respect and compliance. You do not have to be authoritative to lead.

Leading is essentially guiding and being in control of the conversation. Essentially, it's bringing up new topics or changing the current one rather than adding on to what's already there. Participating is going with the flow, leading is directing or creating that flow.

In conclusion, authoritative is one of many styles of leadership. There are many ways to lead once you step up and take the reins.

 

[Conquistador]

Being authoritative also means simply having strong opinions and strong frames, and knowing what you're talking about. At least that's how I personally do things.

 

[D. Gately]

I agree that is just a style, and is natural for some and not others. As an older man typically dating college/grad-school girls, I am always leading and speaking with a position of authority.
Compliance is so much easier when you tell them what to wear, where to meet you, what food/drinks are good there, where you're going next, what you like in bed, et al.

It doesn't mean you do/don't ask questions or anything like that. Some girls will want that, others will want to listen to you. etc.