This is a question every communicator wrestles with, especially because we know how easily most of us forget what we hear! I have just a few thoughts from my experience as a communicator:

Keep it simple. Every time I teach a message, I’m tempted to cram in way too much information because I’m pumped up about the subject and want to share everything I learned in my research. It takes discipline to simplify my message into something people can actually latch on to and remember. Word choices matter. Take the time to play with all kinds of options as you develop the key phrases you want people to remember. Bring a fresh idea to life with new words that sing and soar, rather than using words worn out from overuse.

Tell great stories. Every communicator knows that storytelling is key. Be on a constant lookout for personal stories. And read—a lot. Fill your mind with all kinds of possibilities as you search for just the right story to illustrate the truth you want to teach. Just recently ...