Quick Tip: Always Summarize
Never write a report without an executive summary.
When you’re done the summary, reconsider whether you need the report at all. Most executives want their information in short, simple summaries that get right to the point, and make a clear recommendation.
Try the same approach with e-mail. When you’ve finished a lengthy missive, try writing a short summary of what you are saying. Will anything be lost if you just send the summary, and keep the longer version in case someone asks for more detail?
Apply the same approach to your product brochures (although there are some rare instances where being wordy can be better), newsletters, advertising, website, signage and other communications and marketing.
Think haiku, not novel.
See other Quick Tips.
Tags: business, corporate, brevity, summary, clarity, communication, managers, reports, productivity, editing
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POSTED IN: Audiences, Communication Skills, Executive Mindset, Quick Tips, Strategic Thinking, Writing
2 opinions for Quick Tip: Always Summarize
Donna Papacosta
Aug 1, 2007 at 2:33 pm
Great advice, Eric, particularly since no one READS anymore. ;-)
Eric Eggertson
Aug 1, 2007 at 8:58 pm
Now, if some podcasters I know could start to apply the keep it short rule… (not you, Donna)!
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