In this blog, I will provide a summary of Chapter 4 of Aletta Rochat’s book, Speak, Connect and Succeed. You need a message to deliver on your purpose and intention. A message will help you focus your attention and your audience on your why. So what is my message or a message?
A message is emotive; it comes from the heart. A message has a personal element, usually a strong belief or passion. A message connects facts and data to your audience, making the numbers come alive. Messages are short, memorable, and repeatable; they cut to the core quickly and make you curious. So how do we define our message?
You force yourself to express your message in ten words or less. This ensures clarity of thought. The process is simple:
- Write down, brain dump, 20 different ten-word statements about your presentation. Don’t worry about getting them right; write them down.
- When you start doing this, 2 or 3 sentences will appeal more to you.
- Test your sentence or slogan with family or friends; use humor if you can.
- Weave your slogan into your presentation, and use it in your title if it works.
- Make sure you can use it at the beginning of your presentation or speech.
- Repeat it a few times in your speech
- Lastly, end with it.
Without a message, you won’t be able to connect with your audience, which could mean that you might lose potential future business, or you might not be able to network effectively with others.