Focus on first minute

Focus on first minute

Thomas Hartwig

Published
08/2024 by Thomas Hartwig

Who doesn’t know them, the great communicators who communicate their goals in a simple way and lead their team to success?
While some cannot get their products or goals across to the man or woman despite the greatest efforts, extensive explanations and repetitions, others seem to manage it just like that.

There are simple rules that can make you a great communicator. We know already many of them. For example: Do not go into a conversation unprepared and keep the goal of the conversation in mind.

Chris Fenning has dealt intensively with the topic of leading conversations. In his book The First Minute he shows how you can shape your conversations in the business world effectively from the very beginning and communicate even complex topics simply and clearly.

In his view, the first 60 seconds of your conversation are particularly important. How you structure this first minute determines the success of the conversation.
No, don't condense all the information into the first sentences, but rather

(1) Frame the conversation in fifteen seconds or less. Framing provides context, makes your intentions clear, and give a clear headline.
(2) Create a structured summary of the entire message you need to deliver.
(3) State the goal and define the problem that stands between you and achieving that goal.
(4) Then focus the conversation on achieving the solution.

Chris Fenning gives these and many other tips in his 118-page book. He can help you become a great communicator.