We will blend in some personal stuff soon but two more quick startup tips…i call this the shit that nobody tells you or EVER writes about…it’s about communication!  doing it right, makes your life much easier.

1. Numbers, numbers and more numbers -  Every sentence, claim, bullet in every conversation or presentation should be backed up by numbers.

x% likelihood, $y cost, Z weeks to complete, x% increase.  I don’t care what it is take the time to apply some numbers.  To justify, measure, back-up your position or to show you’ve thought through your position.  Whether communicating to your board, your team or in coaching direct reports how to communicate with you.  Numbers in every sentence

2.  Pyramid communication - Most CEO’s are busy,  probably have a-d-d and meetings/calls up the yazoo. They are usually pretty smart (or so i think) and have been around the block enough to get concepts quickly.  In communicating with them (ahem, me) start with the highlight, then a bit more detail and then…wait for them  to either say “got it” or “nod” and then go ahead and dive into more details. Most importantly, get RIGHT TO THE POINT.  I don’t need any flowery stories or long justifications of how you got to your main point.

Yet,   KNOW YOUR DETAILS.Board members, CEO’s they fly high, but the good ones bring their plane down from 30,000 feet to crop dusting level very quickly..and ya better be on point.

Look, i learned this lesson the hard way.  Until my latest gig, i’d ramble. Well not rambling, but more “thinking out loud.” My board members, HATED IT!  I had to learn to hit the highpoints, move on..when asked a question, I often (not always) pause to gather my thoughts as well.  Anyway, keep it short, concise and think like a pyramid.