061: Communication Is Multiplication
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SUMMARY:
In this week s episode, Executive Minds members Jeff Henderson and Kevin Jennings discuss communicating new ideas. Launchers tend to believe that their idea alone is magic, but Jeff and Kevin explain why communication, messaging and phrases are key to true impact. When pitching an idea, it s not about information, it s about buy in.
Welcome to Episode 61 of the Executive Minds Podcast.
HELPFUL LINKS AND RESOURCES:
Free eBook Launch Loop text LAUNCHPAD to 345345
How I Built This Podcast: Sarah Blakely of SPANX
THREE KEY TAKEAWAYS:
1. Messaging Matters
Launchers struggle with communicating new ideas. They tend to think the idea is so great that it sells itself. While the idea may be great, communicating it to others is what really makes it come to life. Gone are the days of slide decks and power points.
Most launchers may think, The more information I have the better I m going to communicate. But this isn’t always true. You won t get buy in of your idea by immediately spouting facts, numbers and details. Finding the right message to showcase your idea is important and can be difficult; but, just because it s difficult to find the right messaging doesn’t mean you aren t on the right track with your idea. Don t be discouraged if it takes time to find the perfect fit.
2. Process. Prepare. Practice.
Jeff is a preacher s son. As a boy, he remembers feeling amazed that his father s words had the ability to impact people s lives in such a strong way. This inspired Jeff to study other communicators to determine what made them successful. He noticed each communicator had a process that he or she followed, similar to the Launch Loop. He also noticed great communicators prepare and practice before presenting to their audience. Ask trusted mentors, coworkers or family to listen to your presentation. Ask for their honest feedback. If you aren t able to gather anyone to watch, video yourself instead. Both options may feel awkward, but it s key to being prepared.
3. A Phrase that Pays
When communicating an idea to a friend or colleague, you may see the interaction as simple addition. But to really get traction on your idea, consider it more like multiplication.
Think of it like this: You not only want to impact the person you’re talking to, but you want to impact five people down the line from him or her. You want them to understand your idea so well that they tells others (who will tell others, who will tell others, and so on). Remember, think multiplication if you want your idea to spread with you. Bonus tip: If you want to test whether your idea stuck, ask your colleague to repeat it back to you in the attempt to sell you on your own idea. If you get a blank stare, you know you have more work to do.