In the final article in the writing tips series, we delve into writing persuasive messages for our leaders. Without clear directions from leaders, team members can work ineffectively and at cross-purposes. If you have been entrusted with the responsibility of writing key messages or speeches for a leader, it’s essential that you draft strong and purposeful messages that don’t read like a laundry list.
Here are a few tips you can use.
Have a structure
Audiences expect two things from a speaker: A path and a destination. They want to know where you’re going and why. As you write and revise, focus on structuring and simplifying. Remove anything that’s extraneous, contradictory, or confusing. Do your research. You must be comfortable enough with your topic to write with confidence and authority.
Write as if conversing with one person
How many times have you felt the speaker was talking directly only to you? As you write, picture one person and what you want to say to them.
Keep it short
Write key messages as short sentences. This will help the audience remember them as well as make them adaptable to any situation.
Avoid jargon
Make key messages simple and easy to understand by avoiding the use of industry related jargon. This will help it be understood by a wider range of people.
Understand your audience
Consider your target audiences. What do they need and want to hear from you? Ensure you tailor your target messages to each individual group.
Repeat yourself
In writing a speech, repetition is the key to leaving an impression. Hammer home key words, phrases, and themes. Always be looking for places to tie back and reinforce earlier points.
Make rough drafts first and polish later
Don’t needlessly pressure yourself by trying to write the perfect key message or speech at the outset. The best speeches come only after many, many re-writes. Your audience can retain about five new ideas from a presentation. Any more, and your key take away ideas will be diluted.
End strong
Your close is what your audience will remember. So recap your biggest takeaway, tie everything together and make a call to action.
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