Effective Communication: Make A Point!

is he making a point

Communicators job is to MAKE A POINT, not throw out words.

4 filter questions to convey a precise point.

  • Do I “believe it”?

“I Believe That” Test: Place the words “I believe that” in front of what you think is your point, and see if your statement is grammatically correct.

The “I Believe That” test is not only helpful for speeches; it’s also useful for emails, job interviews, pitches, performance reviews — any situation in which you’re trying to make an impact.

  • Is It a Truism?

One way to root out a truism is to follow up the point by asking yourself “why?” If it’s a truism, there won’t be much of an answer. It answers itself.

  • Am I Jamming Too Many Ideas Into My Point?

It may seem like you add value to your point when you add new words and ideas, but when you throw multiple points at an audience in a single sentence, you actually dilute the impact of each. The audience is not only forced to split their attention between multiple points, but left clueless as to which idea is more relevant.

  • Am I Relying on “Badjectives”?

Badjectives are adjectives so broad that they convey no value. They’re deceptive because they seem to project a clear impression. Who wouldn’t want to be connected to something “excellent,” “fantastic,” “terrific,” or “very good”?

Using badjectives is like when a Little League coach says “Come on now, Johnnie!” versus “Keep your eye on the ball as it comes to you, Johnnie!” One has no value, but the other makes a substantive point.

The bottom line: Your point as the foundation of your speech. Without one, you have nothing to build on, and you’re offering your audience little of value. In essence, you’re pointless.

📙 Get to the Point: Sharpen Your Message and Make Your Words Matter (Joel Schwartzberg)