You’re struggling to get your point across in a meeting. How can you make your message stick?

1 Use a story

One of the best ways to capture your audience's attention and emotion is to use a story. A story can help you illustrate the problem you're trying to solve, the solution you're offering, and the impact you're aiming for. It can also help you connect with your audience on a personal level, by showing them how your project relates to their values, needs, and goals. A story can be based on a real or hypothetical scenario, as long as it's relevant, engaging, and concise. Try to use vivid details, sensory language, and dialogue to make your story come alive.

3 Use visuals

A third way to make your message stick is to use visuals that complement your verbal communication. Visuals can help you illustrate complex concepts, show data and evidence, and create contrast and comparison. Visuals can include charts, graphs, diagrams, images, icons, or videos. However, you need to make sure that your visuals are clear, relevant, and consistent with your message. Don't use too many visuals, or ones that are distracting, confusing, or low-quality. Use colors, fonts, and layouts that enhance your message, not overpower it.

5 Use feedback

A fifth way to make your message stick is to use feedback that engages your audience and checks their understanding. Feedback can help you gauge your audience's interest, attention, and comprehension, and adjust your communication accordingly. Feedback can include asking open-ended or closed-ended questions, soliciting opinions or suggestions, or conducting polls or surveys. Feedback can also help you build rapport and trust with your audience, by showing them that you value their input and perspective. Use feedback throughout your presentation, not just at the end, and acknowledge and respond to your audience's feedback respectfully and constructively.

6 Use action

A sixth and final way to make your message stick is to use action that motivates your audience and inspires them to take the next steps. Action can help you close your presentation with a clear and compelling call to action, that tells your audience what you want them to do, why they should do it, and how they can do it. Action can also help you create a sense of urgency and excitement, by showing them the benefits and opportunities of your project, and the risks and costs of not doing it. Use action to end your presentation on a high note, and follow up with your audience to ensure they take action.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?