Effective Executive Communication Principle #6 Be Prepared

Be Prepared Even When You Think It’s Not Necessary


So often executives think that, because they know their work or their projects so well, they can “wing” a briefing or even a fairly long report or presentation. Don’t do it. Winging it never works well unless you have delivered the same message or report or presentation a hundred times. Take five minutes to figure out your talking points, or take even longer for a major presentation. Preparation makes you feel confident and ensures your nerves will not get the best of you.

Even before you call a client or leave a message for your boss do not hesitate to take a few moments to jot down your ideas. This way you will always come across as the competent professional that you are.