Our Methodology
How to Engage an Executive Quickly and Effectively
The missing component in most executive conversations is a clear message. More than any other listener, an executive wants to know the bottom-line benefit or decision that needs to be made right up front. The SW&A methodology introduces a message formula to bring clarity to a conversation quickly. And our framework provides flexibility so that a communicator can adjust to an executive’s level of knowledge and interest throughout the discussion.
This workshop teaches the fundamentals of organizing a high-level conversation from the executive’s perspective. Through a role play and coaching, participants gain insights to structure these conversations and lead them with confidence.
Content – Most listeners give a communicator about 30 seconds to set a message and direction for their storyline. An effective communicator learns how to format ideas to frame a message and set the structure quickly to keep the listener(s) involved. We teach how to organize a storyline, create a compelling message and leverage stories to be sure sound bites are heard and remembered.
Style – Personal style, is presence, the ability to engage an individual or a group from the start of a conversation. An effective communicator comes across as confident and credible, conveying a sense of commitment to their topic and a personal interest in connecting the topic to each listener. The SW&A approach to style teaches the intentional choices communicators make to deliver on those impressions.
Situational – While the tools stay the same, the situations don’t. Every communicator thinks about their audience differently from those who interact with small groups to those who deliver keynote speeches. They think about outcomes differently, too. From meetings that generate discovery to recommendations that gain approval. That’s why the third dimension of our work applies the fundamentals to specific situations. It helps a communicator shift from competence in their skills to consistent outcomes in their communication.
