Leadership Tip

How to get people’s attention

With people being constantly bombarded with requests, it can be tough to get your colleagues’ attention. That’s why it’s important to cut to the chase about what you need someone to do, when, and why. Whether you’re sending an email, making a presentation, or talking to your boss:

  1. Start with what you want. Provide the most important information up front and ask for what you need. "John, I need your advice about the product launch."
     
  2. Set the scene. Provide just enough context so the audience can follow along. "To refresh your memory, the event we have planned is..."
     
  3. Explain the reason. What prompted you to deliver the message? "We need to figure out how to motivate the vendor to meet marketing’s deadline."
     
  4. Connect to the big picture. Why should your audience care? "This is a critical step toward meeting our unit’s goal of 65% customer retention."

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The above leadership tip...
was sent in response to a question from a participant on our acclaimed 10/10 leadership development and mentoring programme and adapted How to Get Your Colleagues’ Attention by Amy Gallo. Whether you're a first time manager or an experienced leader, straightforward, practical advice on best practice is hard to find. Until now. To find out how you, your team or your organisation can benefit, please join us on our next complimentary webinar or contact us.


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