Executive Communication
Takeaway:
Leadership's time is money. Make the most impact with the short time you have with them by answering their questions directly and you'll leave an impression.
Try answering this question. Are you cooking Filet Mignon tonight? Be honest, did you start your answer with a Yes or No before going into the details? You should because it's a Yes or No question. Most people start with the details and believe they're answering the question, but end up creating confusion, questions, and frustration for their audience.
Leadership thinks in a "top-down" manner. Give leadership the headlines before going into the details. Leadership may reach a conclusion based on the headline. You're asked for more information when their interest is peaked. How would you respond when asked? This brings us to The Rule of 3.
It's important to give the top THREE supporting evidence. Here are my top three reasons (see what I did there?); it's easier to remember, you're forced to choose three important matters, and you're structured and decisive in your speech.
This practice is applied in writing too! I have a takeaway section at the beginning of each blog with three headlines and it's written with The Rule of 3 in mind. Practice this art in written and verbal form and you'll communicate like an executive in no time.