Structures For Effective Communication
In Think Faster, Talk Smarter, Stanford lecturer and communications expert Matt Abrahams introduces two simple yet powerful structures for effective communication:
Problem/Opportunity → Solution → Benefit
What? → So what? (Why it matters) → Now what? (Next steps)
While Abrahams focuses on spontaneous speaking, I’ve found these frameworks equally valuable for writing, especially when crafting concise posts to share useful techniques and strategies.
Why It Matters
Structure enhances how we process and retain information. According to Abrahams, having a clear roadmap increases communication effectiveness. For writing, these frameworks also encourage brevity, acting as guardrails against unnecessary tangents and ensuring only the most relevant, actionable points are shared.
Try It Out
Applying these communication structures has brought clarity and focus to my writing here. They’ve helped me streamline my purpose: sharing practical ideas, techniques, and frameworks I’ve found useful without diving too deeply into any single topic. The result? I save time, stay concise, and can focus on programmatic work and building relationships while satisfying my desire to share insights with others.
Next time you speak or write, experiment with these structures. They’re straightforward, versatile, and designed to help you communicate with clarity and impact.