How long is the average television commercial? 30 seconds. Why? This is due to time constraints and the fact that the attention span of most people is 30 seconds.
I am not implying that an entire conversation will last only 30 seconds. I am saying that a well delivered message within a conversation will fit within this guideline.
This is best achieved by following this simple format:
- Develop a clear objective. What is your goal? What do you want to accomplish with the conversation?
- Who is your audience? Who is in position to get you what you want?
- What is the right approach to get what you want? How do you satisfy the needs of your listener to get what you want?
- What is your hook? How will you best obtain the attention of your audience?
- The close. Ask for what you want.
Example: An employee wanting to take a continuing education course speaking to his/her supervisor. John, the implementation of SAP is critical to the company’s strategic plan. I believe it would benefit our team if I would become familiar with SAP prior to the implementation. There is a course being offered at XWZ University March 10th that I would like to attend. Please let me know so that I may enroll.
Published by Conselium Executive Search, the global leader in compliance search.
